1st US congressman dies of COVID-19 complications

WASHINGTON

Republican US congressman Ron Wright of Texas died Sunday from COVID-19 complications at the age of 67, his office announced Monday.

Wright has become the first member of Congress to die from the virus. He and his wife Susan had been undergoing treatment for COVID-19 at Baylor University Hospital in Dallas, Texas for two weeks. He died with his wife by his side, his office said in a statement.

Wright had previously survived multiple bouts of cancer and was at higher risk for more severe health complications from the virus.

"Ron maintained his quick wit and optimism until the very end," Wright's office said. "Despite years of painful, sometimes debilitating treatment for cancer, Ron never lacked the desire to get up and go to work, to motivate those around him, or to offer fatherly advice."

The Republican lawmaker from Texas announced he tested positive for the coronavirus on Jan. 21 after coming in contact with an infected individual, saying then that he was experiencing minor symptoms but felt "okay".