Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis confirms COVID-19 death at Broward County assisted living facility

77-year-old male had significant underlying medical problems

A 77-year-old man that died after contracting coronavirus was living at the Atria Willow Wood assisted living facility in Fort Lauderdale. (WPLG)

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis spoke from the State Capitol in Tallahasee Tuesday morning to provide the latest information regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.

During his press conference, DeSantis said there has been a coronavirus-related death at a Broward County assisted living facility.

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The 77-year-old male had significant underlying medical problems, and DeSantis confirmed that a team from the Florida Department of Health would be investigating.

Local 10 News confirmed that the facility where the man who passed away was living is Atria Willow Wood in Fort Lauderdale, located at 2855 West Commercial Boulevard.

The 18 acre facility, which has independent living, assisted living and memory care, is on lockdown.

There are 180 different suites and rooms at the facility.

DeSantis is recommending that all Florida universities utilize online-only classes for the rest of the spring semester in hopes students will return to their homes and not congregate.

Regarding restaurants, DeSantis continues to recommend that all establishments only operate at 50% capacity and utilize social distancing with the customers they serve.

All restaurant employees will have required screening before entering the workplace as well.

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The video can be seen below:

Ron DeSantis COVID-19 presser

WATCH LIVE: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis gives latest updates on COVID-19 from State Capitol in Tallahassee.

Posted by WPLG Local 10 on Tuesday, March 17, 2020

About the Author:

David Dwork joined the WPLG Local 10 News team in August 2019. Born and raised in Miami-Dade County, David has covered South Florida sports since 2007.