Erie News Now has confirmed, complications from COVID-19, claimed the life of a veteran Erie Police Officer.
Erie Police Sergeant Gary Taccone, was a 24-year veteran of the Erie Police Department.
The 56-year-old died this week, after being hospitalized recently for COVID symptoms.
Taccone was a detective, training officer, and served on the motorcycle unit for years.
His death comes just days after the force buried another veteran officer, 47-year-old Jason Belton.
The coroner ruled Belton died of natural causes, but it's believed his death was also related to COVID-19. Erie Police Chief Dan Spizarny tells Erie News Now, Belton had been off work sick, and was experiencing COVID-related symptoms.
Chief Spizarny says it's all weighing very heavy on the entire department, "I don't think we've fully dealt with the loss of Officer Belton, now we have this on our plate to deal with, and I think it's very difficult for the officers."
Calling hours for Taccone are set for Sunday, November 7 from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. at the Burton Quinn Scott Cremation & Funeral Services on Norcross Road. A funeral service will be held there Monday, November 8 at 11 a.m., burial will be in St. Gregory's Cemetery.