I think that is just in-thread speculation...not fact.
Department of Health confirms first coronavirus death in Washington state
By: KIRO 7 News Staff
Updated: February 29, 2020 - 9:56 AM
The Washington Department of Health confirmed Saturday the first coronavirus-related death in Washington state, according to a press release.
Health officials said there are new King County cases in addition to the two new cases confirmed Friday evening.
I guess we’ll see if he mentions it or not.