Governor Phil Murphy reported an additional 4,391 processed COVID-19 cases, bringing the statewide total to 75,317.

In addition, the state suffered the loss of 362 more New Jerseyans, deaths processed by the state in the last 24 hours since Murphy’s last briefing.

The statewide death total from COVID-19-related complications now stands at 3,518, the governor said, or more than the number of New Jerseyans lost in the First World War.”

Social distancing “remains the key to us flattening the curve and eventually coming down the other side of it,” said Murphy.

“Our efforts, folks, are working,” he added. “over the past few weeks, we’ve taken a map that once bright red and we’re turning it ligghter and lighter. If we let up just a bit, we will see these colors brightening to orange and God forbid, again to red. We cannot have a spike. That would be potentially diastrous to our healthcare system.”

How many more lives New Jersey loses hinges on social distancing, Murphy insisted.

Public Schools will remain closed at least through May 15th, he announced.

The governor admitted being pained by the decision, but said it is necessary at this time, until New Jersey flattens the curve of the coronavirus.

He expressed gratitude to New York Governor Andrew Cumo for the donation of 100 ventilators to New Jersey.

“Neighbors look out for each other, and we will return the favor,” said New Jersey’s governor.

He announced his appointment of Dr. Rich Besser and former U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Jah Johnson to work with his own Chief of Staff George Helmy as New Jersey’s represenatives on a multi-state council tasked with determining a reopening plan for regionally COVID-19-impacted states.

Murphy also reacted to an ABC News report that Andover Rehabilitation in Sussex County lost 68 lives and another 76 residents have tested positive, according to Congressman Josh Gottheimer.

“When they called Saturday they were desperate for body bags,” Gottheimer said, according to the report. “Overall, we need to figure out what went on here. Did they take all the steps necessary upfront for PPE, did they segregate those who are positive.” He pledged there would be “a very deep” investigation.

Murphy said:

“We are outraged by this. This is completely unacceptable. It is not only outrageous, but unacceptable.”