Louisiana state Rep. Reggie Bagala died after testing positive for the coronavirus.
Bagala, a 54-year-old Republican, was hospitalized and placed on a ventilator last week after his COVID-19 symptoms escalated. He died on Thursday. Several Louisiana lawmakers released statements mourning Bagala’s death.
“My deepest sympathies go out to the family of state Rep. Reggie Bagala, who passed away today after a battle with coronavirus. Thank you, Reggie, for serving Louisiana. Please join me in prayer for the family during this difficult time,” wrote U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy.
My deepest sympathies go out to the family of state Rep. Reggie Bagala, who passed away today after a battle with coronavirus. Thank you, Reggie, for serving Louisiana. Please join me in prayer for the family during this difficult time.
— U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (@SenBillCassidy) April 9, 2020
Louisiana Secretary of State R. Kyle Ardoin wrote, “It is with utter shock and sadness that I have learned of the passing of my dear friend Reggie Bagala. Please keep his family and loved ones in your prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”
It is with utter shock and sadness that I have learned of the passing of my dear friend Reggie Bagala. Please keep his family and loved ones in your prayers during this incredibly difficult time. pic.twitter.com/UAVjMxTy7J
— La. Sec. of State (@Louisiana_sos) April 9, 2020
In a post to Facebook, Bagala’s son, Tristan, wrote, “He was a profoundly honest and decent man who loved unceasingly. His family, his culture, his LSU Tigers, and his home here on the Bayou Lafourche.”
It is with great sadness to let you know @tpbagala just informed me of his father’s passing! See below. Please pray for Rep Bagala’s family. #godblessreggie pic.twitter.com/70YZb8ac3B
— Marty J Chabert (@MartyJChabert) April 9, 2020
As of Thursday, Louisiana had more than 18,000 confirmed cases of the coronavirus, with 702 related deaths.
