File photo
File photo
The lead administrator for the LaSalle Veterans Home has been fired by Gov. J.B. Pritzker after 32 veterans died from COVID-19.
Acting Assistant Director for the Illinois Department Of Veterans Affairs Anthony Vaughn will take leadership in this period. Vaughn replaces Home Administrator Angela Mehlbrech, and the home’s Director of Nursing has also been placed on administrative leave during a period of further investigations.
“IDVA mourns the tragedy of the veteran heroes lost to COVID-19 at the LaSalle Veterans’ Home," Vaughn said in response to the recent deaths. "We will ensure that CDC and IDPH protocols are followed and full accountability occurs for any lapses in protocols.”
Vaughn has been a part of the IDVA since 2005, and previously served as a Marine for 24 years. During his time as a Marine, Vaughn also worked as an administrative and personnel chief.
In a recent statement, Pritzker addressed the loss of life at LaSalle.
“[COVID-19] looks for a carrier to bring it inside a home, even when significant efforts are made to follow mitigations," he said. "But, it should never have been this bad.”
The first positive COVID-19 diagnosis at LaSalle took place on Nov. 1. Following a Nov. 12 visit by the Illinois Department of Public Health, state officials informed the Senate’s Veterans Affairs committee that the facility lacked proper sanitization and protection to ward off the virus. Recent figures reveal that 39 of 96 inhabitants at the home have tested positive for COVID-19.
Amid ongoing investigations and potential hearings, IDVA Director Chapa LaVia made clear that the department will fully cooperate with independent investigators, will remain dedicated to providing transparent accounts of current events, and that at-fault parties will be held responsible.
Alerts Sign-up