British baby Charlie Gard dies

Charlie Gard, the critically ill 11-month-old British baby who was on life support due to complications from a mitochondrial disease, has died.

The Associated Press on Friday reported that Gard, who would have turned 1 next week, died. His parents made the announcement on Friday.

{mosads} Gard suffered from a rare genetic disease, mitochondrial depletion syndrome. His parents were seeking experimental treatment for their son in the U.S., which quickly became the subject of controversy.

Trump tweeted his support for Charlie Gard earlier this month.

“If we can help little #CharlieGard, as per our friends in the U.K. and the Pope, we would be delighted to do so,” Trump tweeted.

Gard’s case created an international uproar and sparked debate over whether the government should be able to mandate “death with dignity” over a family’s wishes to seek out experimental medication for their sick child.

Shortly after the report, Vice President Mike Pence tweeted offering “prayers and condolences to his loving parents during this difficult time.”

Saddened to hear of the passing of Charlie Gard. Karen & I offer our prayers & condolences to his loving parents during this difficult time.

— Vice President Pence (@VP) July 28, 2017