Navajo Police Department says one of its officers has died due to coronavirus.
Officer Michael Lee, a 29-year police veteran with the Chinle Police District, reportedly died from the virus, officials said. The department says it is the first officer line-of-duty death due to COVID-19.
“It is with great sorrow that the Navajo Police Department announces the passing of Officer Michael Lee. We are devastated and heartbroken.” Chief Phillip Francisco said in a statement Friday. “Officer Lee was a husband, a father, a son and a protector of his community. We ask the public to join us in remembering his commitment and contribution to his community and to keep his family in your thoughts and prayers today.”
The Navajo Police Department worked with law enforcement partners regarding the procession for Officer Lee from Banner University Medical Center in Phoenix, Arizona to Rollies Mortuary in Gallup, New Mexico.
Funeral services took place at 10 a.m. on Thursday, June 25. The Navajo Police Department live-streamed the memorial online.
