Louisiana Rep.-elect Luke Letlow, who died of COVID-19 complications, had surgery on a blood clot before succumbing to a heart attack, according to a new report.
The 41-year-old Republican underwent two procedures to treat a blood clot he developed while fighting the coronavirus, the Monroe News-Star reported.
The second surgery appeared to be successful on Tuesday, but he died of a heart attack later that day at Ochsner LSU Health in Shreveport, the paper reported.
“It’s devastating for our entire team,” LSU Health Shreveport Chancellor GE Ghali told the paper, adding that Letlow “had no underlying conditions.”
Funeral arrangements have been made for Saturday afternoon at North Monroe Baptist Church in Monroe, the newspaper reported.
All COVID-19 restrictions will be followed and mourners will be required to wear masks.
Letlow – who would take office on Sunday after winning a second election – is survived by his wife, Julia Barnhill Letlow, and their children, 3-year-old Jeremiah and 11-month-old Jacqueline.
“We are heartbroken that we lost Luke way too soon and made way too much of a promise, but we are immensely grateful for all that Luke has accomplished in a life marked by service to others and a determination to make a real difference in this world. ”the family said in a statement to the newspaper.
“The incredible outpouring of support from our community, state and nation is a testament to how many lives Luke has influenced through his friendship, leadership and heartfelt kindness.”