WMU Student Dies After Contracting The Coronavirus; Sister Says He Was Refused Tests

Bassey Offiong, a 25-year-old Western Michigan University student, passed away Saturday after contracting the coronavirus.

According to Detroit News, Offiong’s untimely death came after he was denied a coronavirus test, despite having symptoms.

“I told them to ask them to test him,” the victim’s sister Asari said, adding that he told her that he had a fever, fatigue, and shortness of breath. “He said they refused to test him.”

One medical professional even told Offiong that he had bronchitis, Asari said, adding that he had no known pre-existing conditions or health issues.

According to the publication, Offiong spent the last week in ICU on a ventilator before he passed on Saturday. He was expected to graduate with a chemical engineering degree in just a few weeks.

“On behalf of the entire Bronco community, I want to extend my deepest condolences to his entire family, including his sister, Asari, who has been generous in communicating with us regularly,” Western Michigan University President, Edward  Montgomery, said in a press release from the university, adding that Offiong had “enormous potential.”

“They are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” he said.

In the meantime, the university announced on Friday that three students have tested positive for the virus, as they urged the community to stay at home.