Fifth COVID-19 resident death at Participation House in Markham

A fifth resident of Participation House in Markham has died from COVID-19, according to York Region Public Health.

Every one of the 42 residents at the facility for physically and mentally challenged adults has tested positive for the novel coronavirus.

"Yes, I can confirm that there has been a fifth death at Participation House, that was confirmed by York Region Public Health," the office of Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti said in an email.

"We will not be releasing a statement because the family has asked for privacy at this time."

The facility for physically and mentally challenged adults has struggled with understaffing after most of its personal support workers walked off the job fearing for their safety when they learned of an outbreak this month.

As of Friday, 12 staff members have also tested positive for COVID-19.

Margaryta Ignatenko is a breaking news reporter, working out of the Star's radio room in Toronto. Follow her on Twitter: @MargarytaIgnat1