The medical profession in both Gibraltar and Marbella has paid tribute to Dr. George Chami, the respected GHA (Gibraltar Health Authority) orthopedic surgeon, who was killed in the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria.

The body of the 52-year-old was recovered from his collapsed apartment building in Antaky at the weekend.

Gibraltar Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo, said: “It is with great sadness that we have been notified of the passing of Dr George Chami. He was an extremely respected surgeon in our community, and his passing will be felt not just by all those who knew him, but every person in this close knit community. Dr Chami chose to make Gibraltar his home, and with that improve the lives of many Gibraltarians with his talent. All our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this devastating time.

“Last week I wrote to the UK ambassadors for Turkey and Syria expressing our condolences and solidarity on behalf of the people of Gibraltar. We continue to remember all those who have been affected and tomorrow we will hold a minute of silence for all those who have died, especially Dr Chami, whose loss will be very deeply felt in Gibraltar by all who knew him and were his grateful patients and colleagues at the GHA”.

Dr Chami was also a member of the HC Marbella International Hospital trauma team. A social media post paid tribute to him “He represents a very heartfelt loss, not only as a doctor, but also as a colleague and friend. From HC Marbella International Hospital we join the condolences of the Government of Gibraltar and convey our deepest condolences to his family and friends”.