Dallas-area high school student dies from coronavirus, officials say
A 17-year-old girl from Lancaster has died from the coronavirus, according to officials.
Jameela Dirrean-Emoni Barber, who was a student at Lancaster High School, is the first person to die from COVID-19 in the city, Lancaster Independent School District confirmed to Star-Telegram media partner WFAA-TV. Health officials there have confirmed 41 cases.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family as they process the loss of their loved one,” Lancaster Mayor Clyde C. Hairston said in a news release. “It is devastating to see the havoc this virus has put on our community both young and old. We will continue to pray for the family and the safety of our residents during this difficult time.”
Hairston urged residents to continue to practice CDC-recommended social distancing guidelines to control the spread of COVID-19.
Lancaster ISD Superintendent Elijah Granger said in a letter to the community that Jameela was a well-rounded student who was part of the National Honor Society and involved with JROTC, according to the Dallas Morning News.
“Her absence leaves us with fond memories, and the unexplainable sadness of a life gone too soon,” Granger said. “While we will strive to move forward, this day in our district is marked by pain and despair.”
This story was originally published April 28, 2020 at 3:48 PM.
