Missouri eighth grader dies from COVID-19 complications, school says

An eighth grade student at a Missouri middle school died over the weekend from COVID-19 complications, according to an email from the school’s superintendent.The School District of Washington said Peyton Baumgarth’s family told the school district he died from complications of COVID-19 over the weekend.The last day he attended school at Washington Middle School was Oct. 22. School officials said he was quarantined on Oct. 26, but he was eventually hospitalized and did not improve. Superintendent Lori VanLeer said the district was saddened to learn of Baumgarth’s death.“We extend our heartfelt sympathy to the family and ask that the public respects their privacy,” VanLeer said. “His family deserves nothing less.“The family also asks that we all remember to wear masks, wash hands frequently and follow guidelines. COVID-19 is real and they want to remind students and parents to take these precautions in and outside of school. Because we know this will impact our school community emotionally, we encourage you to be especially sensitive and prepare to offer support to your child(ren) during this difficult time.”The district said it will have additional counselors available at the middle school on Wednesday when students return.Related video: How COVID concerns changed the way parents allow their kids to socialize