Her Majesty’s Government of Gibraltar is saddened to report that Gibraltar may have lost its first resident to COVID-19. 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 results of a swab are awaited and a post mortem will be carried out.

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

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.