DES MOINES, Iowa — Officials with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources say a Conservation Officer from northwest Iowa is the first law enforcement officer to die from COVID-19 in the state. KCCI reports Steve Reighard died Friday at about 10 a.m. Reighard began having symptoms of coronavirus before Christmas and was in the hospital for several weeks.

He started his career as a park ranger in 2005 before being promoted in 2012 to a conservation officer. Reighard was described as being well known in the area, and an outstanding officer.

Conservation officers are sworn peace officers just like state troopers and police officers.