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First Death In Gibraltar From Suspected COVID - Swab Results Awaited

The Government is saddened to report that Gibraltar may have lost its first resident to COVID-19.

The deceased is a male, in the 55 to 60 age range.

The results of a swab are awaited and a post mortem will be carried out.

The deceased was in a high-risk category and had been self-isolating at home for over 3 weeks.

Three days ago he called the 111 number and he called it again last night at approximately 11.45pm to say that he was suffering from shortness of breath, which is a symptom of COVID. An ambulance was despatched. On arrival, he was found by paramedics to be suffering from cardiac arrest. Attempts to resuscitate at home and at A&E were unsuccessful. Symptoms suggest that this death may have been COVID related. Death appears to have occurred as a result of a cardiac arrest.

The Government says it is grateful to the family of the deceased for contacting the authorities with additional information.

The Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo, said: “Everyone will be heartbroken to see this cruel disease may have taken its first Gibraltarian victim, although this cannot yet be confirmed. I am greatly saddened to have to make this announcement. We will await the results of the swab test for the deceased before we are able to confirm whether or not this is a case of a death arising from or with COVID and will inform the public of the result. Every citizen must observe the rules of our lock down. Social distancing is important. It is designed to save lives and to support our GHA personnel so that they can take care of each of us who might need their care when we need it.

“No matter what the cause of death may ultimately be, the Government extends its condolences and the condolences of the People of Gibraltar to the family and friends of the deceased.”