Pope Francis died on Easter Monday due to a stroke, which led to a coma and ultimately a fatal collapse of his heart and circulatory system, according to the Holy See Press Office on Monday evening.
The official medical confirmation was provided by Dr. Andrea Arcangeli, who leads the Vatican City State’s Directorate of Health and Hygiene.
READ ALSO: Pope Francis passes away at 88
The medical summary also revealed that the Pope had been dealing with several underlying health conditions, including severe respiratory issues from bilateral pneumonia caused by multiple microbial infections, chronic bronchial problems, hypertension, and Type 2 diabetes.
His death was confirmed through electrocardiographic thanatography. “I hereby declare,” wrote Dr. Arcangeli, “that the causes of death, to the best of my knowledge and judgment, are as stated above.”
Breakingng.com had earlier reported that Pope Francis died on Monday at the age of 88.
His death was announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo. “Dear brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” a statement from the camerlengo said.
“At 7:35 this morning the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His whole life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.”
Farrell continued, “He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.”
“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the Triune God,” the statement concluded.
