Washington state Sen. Doug Ericksen dies after COVID battle at age 52

Washington state Sen. Doug Ericksen, a staunch conservative, has died at age 52. Ericksen's death Friday came weeks after he said he had tested positive for the coronavirus while in El Salvador, though his cause of death wasn't immediately released. 

"We are heartbroken to share that our husband and father passed away on Friday, Dec. 17. Please keep our family in your prayers and thank you for continuing to respect our privacy in this extremely difficult time," his family shared with the Republican Caucus, CBS affiliate KIRO-TV reported.

He leaves behind his wife, Tasha, and two daughters, the station reported.