India, April 21 -- Pope Francis, the first Latin American and 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, died at the age of 88 on April 21. The Vatican confirmed the cause of his death.

Double pneumonia complications have been verified as Pope Francis' cause of death. His condition had been deteriorating since he was sent to Gemelli Hospital in Rome in the middle of February due to bronchitis that developed into pneumonia in both lungs. He showed early signs of improvement, but his health gradually deteriorated and he experienced respiratory crises that need ventilator assistance. He passed away quietly at his home in Casa Santa Marta, the Vatican.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, announced his passing, saying, "The Bishop ...