(WWL Radio) — A Baker, Louisiana, police lieutenant died from complications with COVID-19 the day before he was supposed to get married.
Lt. Demarcus Dunn, 36, had postponed his July 2020 wedding until August of this year, but as he prepared for the nuptials, he contracted the coronavirus.
He died on Aug. 13, leaving behind three children, ages 13, 5, and 1, as well as a grieving fiance.
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“She’s lost without him,” said Carl Dunn, the Baker police chief and Demarcus’ cousin, who spoke with ABC News.
Demarcus Dunn was not vaccinated, and there was no vaccine mandate while working at the Baker Police Department.
"It was disturbing to me that he hadn't gotten [the vaccine], and I didn't know for sure he hadn't gotten it till it was all over with," Carl Dunn said.
Demarcus Dunn was hospitalized and placed on a ventilator on Aug. 10. He died three days later.
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"I know he was a fighter and strong-willed," Carl Dunn said. "I just kept telling myself he was going to make it, and I kept assuring the family that I knew he was going to make it."
In addition to being a lieutenant, Demarcus Dunn was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and used his free time to coach and mentor children in his community.
Baker Mayor Darnell Waites issued a statement in the wake of his death: "My heart is heavy since learning of the passing of Demarcus Dunn. He was a father, husband, soldier, mentor, friend and veteran Baker police officer — a man loved by all.
"His life spent dedicated in service to others was a shining example for our community."
