First NJ Coronavirus Death; Total Cases Rise To 15: Governor

NEW JERSEY — Authorities announced on Tuesday the first death of a new coronavirus patient in New Jersey. The fatality was among four new cases identified Tuesday, raising the state's total to 15.

Gov. Phil Murphy and Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver announced that the first New Jersey resident to die from COVID-19 was a 69-year-old man from Little Ferry in Bergen County.

His name was John Brennan, a former harness racing trainer who worked for years at New York’s Yonkers Raceway, according to Time magazine.

Four new cases were also revealed on Tuesday. Read more: NJ Coronavirus Updates: Here's What You Need To Know

“We are sad to report the first death in a case of COVID-19 in New Jersey," Murphy said. "Our prayers are with the family during this difficult time. We remain vigilant to doing all we can — across all levels of government — to protect the people of New Jersey.”

The Little Ferry man who died had a history of diabetes, emphysema and hypertension, officials said. He had no history of traveling outside of the United States, although he did travel back and forth to New York, officials said.

The man had a fever and cough, and visited his primary care physician a week ago. He was given antibiotics, but his condition didn't improve. He was admitted Friday to Hackensack University Medical Center.

He was isolated, and his condition deteriorated Monday night, and he went into cardiac arrest. He was revived but then went into cardiac arrest Tuesday morning and died, officials said.

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“I was deeply saddened to learn that we lost a Bergen County resident from a case of COVID-19. Marla and I are thinking about his family and loved ones during this very difficult time," said U.S. Rep. Josh Gotttheimer, D-Bergen.

"Our hospitals, health facilities, frontline medical professionals, communities, and state and federal government are all working to help make sure this outbreak is contained and to keep New Jersey residents safe."

The new cases included two people from Bergen County, one of whom was the man who died, officials said.

Another two are from Burlington County. Health officials said they did not immediately have more specific details on the cases.

A total of 31 people are under investigation for the virus and will be tested, officials said.

This is a breaking story. Please check back for updates.

Oliver and Department of Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli provided more details about the cases during a coronavirus briefing Tuesday for media.