Police in Wyoming, Minnesota, said on Saturday that a hospital security guard, Andrea Merrell, who was involved in a confrontation on Christmas, has died due to injuries sustained from the incident.

Her death has shaken the first responder community. She was attacked, police say, by a patient while on duty at M Health Fairview Lakes Medical Center. According to the White Bear Lake Police Department, she was a reserve officer and a former member of the city's fire department.

David Velasquez knew her as a dedicated state corrections officer and a dear friend.

"There wasn't really anybody that couldn't get along with Andrea," Velasquez said.

He first met her around 20 years ago, he said, when she was dating his partner. Velasquez was a Minneapolis police officer at the time, a job he performed for about 17 years, maintaining his friendship with Merrell even when she and his partner went their separate ways.

He said he understands the call to perform a public service; it was a call that Merrell answered.

"She was passionate about the things that she wanted to achieve the things in life," Velasquez said, "to have it cut short because she was giving herself to a greater cause is just kind of a true testament to her."

Fairview said in a statement:

"We are heartbroken to confirm that our colleague, Andrea Merrell, has died as a result of injuries sustained when she was attacked while responding to a patient elopement in the parking lot at M Health Fairview Lakes Medical Center. Andrea was a valued member of our security team, and our hearts are with her loved ones and coworkers during this incredibly difficult time. We are focused on supporting our teams and ensuring they have the resources they need. We continue to work with law enforcement as they investigate. Questions regarding the investigation should be directed to the Wyoming Police Department."

An ER patient is accused of attacking Merrell inside the medical center on Christmas Day, leading to a confrontation with a police officer outside the facility.

Wyoming city officials say police were called to M Health Fairview Lakes Medical Center just before 5:30 p.m. Thursday on a report of a patient who fled the emergency room after "being placed on hold."

The patient, a 35-year-old man, is said to have assaulted a guard before fleeing. Merrell was transported to Regions Hospital in St. Paul, about 30 miles south of Wyoming, before she ultimately died on Saturday.

"The suspect was non-compliant and physically resisted the officer during a prolonged engagement before being detained," officials said in a news release. "No deadly force was used during this incident."

The 35-year-old man is currently being held at the Chisago County jail. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is assisting police with their investigation.

Velasquez said that he will always remember Merrell as a "textbook" friend. In fact, he said that Merrell is to thank for a beloved member of his household, a cat named Steve that she rescued from the woods as a kitten.

"We have a constant reminder of her at home," Velasquez said.