Thomas Eric Duncan, the man diagnosed with Ebola in Dallas last week, has died, according to officials at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital.

"It is with profound sadness and heartfelt disappointment that we must inform you of the death of Thomas Eric Duncan this morning at 7:51 am. Mr. Duncan succumbed to an insidious disease, Ebola. He fought courageously in this battle. Our professionals, the doctors and nurses in the unit, as well as the entire Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas community, are also grieving his passing. We have offered the family our support and condolences at this difficult time," the hospital said in a statement.

Duncan, 42, had been in critical condition and was being treated with brincidofovir, an experimental drug, and kidney dialysis. Officials believe he may have contracted the disease in Liberia on September 15 while helping to carry his landlord's infected daughter to a hospital. Duncan was admitted to Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital on September 28, eight days after arriving in Dallas.

UPDATE 1 pm: Duncan's girlfriend, Louise Troh, who he was reportedly traveling to Dallas to propose to, released a statement:

This morning we received word that Eric passed away. His suffering is over. My family is in deep sadness and grief, but we leave him in the hands of God. Our deepest sympathies go out to his father and family in Liberian and here in America. Eric was a a wonderful man who showed compassion toward all.

...

I trust a thorough examination will take place regarding all aspects of his care. I am no dealing with the sorrow and anger that his son was not able to see him before he died. This will take some time, but in the end, I still believe in a merciful God.

[Image via AP]