Orange Beach police officer Brandon Ard died Aug. 26 after a long battle with COVID-19. The Orange Beach Police Department made the announcement on its Facebook page Thursday. Ard served the city of Orange Beach for over 16 years as a patrolman, school resource officer and most recently, a beach patrolman.

Ard was hospitalized a week after testing positive for COVID-19 in late July and was intubated Aug. 10. He turned 50 Aug. 17.

In an Aug. 18 Facebook post, Orange Beach Mayor Tony Kennon said, “I’m asking everyone to help us lift Bradon Ard up in prayer as he continues to battle COVID. Please grant him strength and complete healing for restored health.”

Orange Beach Police Department said in their Facebook post Aug. 26:

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our brother in blue, Brandon Ard. He served 16.5 years with the Orange Beach Police Department. Please keep all of Ard’s family and friends in your prayers as we deal with the tragic loss. Rest in peace brother, we got your six.”