Detroit, MI – Today, Mayor Mike Duggan, joined by Police Chief James E. Craig and Fire Commissioner Eric Jones, honored Skylar Herbert at the Detroit Public Safety Headquarters, officially renamed the building’s Michigan Room to the Skylar Herbert Room.

The 5-year old daughter of firefighter Ebbie and police corporal LaVondria Herbert, Skylar passed away last year after contracting COVID-19.

A plaque memorializing Skylar Herbert was unveiled during the ceremony and will hang in the conference room now bearing Skylar’s name.

Skylar passed away on April 19, 2020, and was the first child to pass away from COVID-19 in the state of Michigan. She was described as a “ray of sunshine who was smart, compassionate, and full of life.”

The memorial plaque was made possible with financial support of the Detroit Public Safety Foundation, along with the Detroit Fireman’s Fund Association, and the Detoit Police Fallen and Critically Injured Officers Remembrance Committee.

While honoring Skylar and her family, Chief Craig also spoke to ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and the precautions people across the community can take to keep themselves and each other safe.

“Even if you have been vaccinated, please continue to wear a mask in public, to observe social distancing, and wash your hands frequently,” Chief Craig said. “These actions may seem small, but it can make a difference in stopping this virus from spreading, and saving lives. Although we are moving in the right direction, the fight is not over, and we will continue to pray for and cherish those we have lost.”