Pawtucket Mayor Grebien tests positive for COVID-19

PAWTUCKET, R.I. (WLNE)– Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien said he has tested positive for COVID-19 in a video announcement posted to social media Thursday night.

Grebien said he’s one of several city employees to contract the virus recently.

“I, too, have tested positive for the virus and will continue to follow the necessary isolation protocols,” Grebien said. “I remain mostly asymptomatic and will continue to work from home.”

Grebien thanked residents for continuing to aid efforts to stop the spread of the virus, but said it was  necessary  “to take it to the next level” to prevent further infection.

On Wednesday, ABC6 learned 12 Pawtucket firefighters had recently tested positive for the virus. Three of those firefighters were expected to return to work today, a city spokesperson said.

Rhode Island has seen record numbers of infections in the past few days, as has a large portion of the country.

Residents looking to schedule a test are urged to call 1-855-843-7620.

©WLNE-TV/ABC6 2020