Watch CBS News

Eric Garner's Oldest Daughter, Erica, Dies At 27 Following Massive Heart Attack

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Eric Garner's oldest daughter Erica died Saturday, roughly one week after suffering a devastating heart attack.

The Rev. Al Sharpton, in announcing Garner's death Saturday, says she fought for justice and was "a warrior to the end." She died in a New York hospital. She was 27.

"She passed away this morning," a tweet posted to Erica's Twitter account by family members Saturday morning read. "The reports are real. We didn't deserve her."

The mother of two suffered a heart attack last Saturday. Erica Garner's mother, Esaw, told the Daily News the heart attack was brought on by an asthma attack Christmas Eve.

"Her heart was bigger than the world," another tweet posted to Erica's account on Saturday read in part. "She cared when most people wouldn't have. She was good. She only pursued right, no matter what."

Mayor Bill de Blasio called Erica's death a "horrible tragedy."

"I am praying for her family, who have already been through so much," the mayor tweeted Saturday morning. "This city will miss her unshakable sense of justice and passion for humanity."

Erica became an outspoken advocate for police reform following the death of her father, who died after an officer subdued him with a chokehold in 2014. His last words were "I can't breathe," which became a slogan for activists across the country.

(© Copyright 2017 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.