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Department mourns sudden loss of Mass. corrections officer

A Bristol County Sheriff’s Office spokesman confirmed that Stacey Merkman, 44, did not die from COVID-19

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Stacey Merkman, 44, worked at the Bristol County House of Correction.

Photo/Bristol County Sheriff’s Office via Twitter

By Sarah Calams

FALL RIVER, Mass. — Friends, family and department members are mourning the sudden death of a corrections officer.

WBSM.com reported that Stacey Merkman, 44, who worked for the Bristol County Sheriff’s Office for over 20 years, died on April 11. A Bristol County Sheriff’s Office spokesman confirmed that Officer Merkman did not die from COVID-19.

“We’re heartbroken to announce the passing of CO Stacey Merkman, a dear member of the BCSO family,” Bristol County Sheriff Thomas Hodgson posted on Twitter. “Please keep her family, especially COs Sonya and Ronald Merkman, in your prayers. We love you, Stacey; Rest in peace.”

Due to current COVID-19 restrictions on public gatherings, Merkman’s funeral service and burial will be for immediate family only. A public service will be held at a later date.

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