SUDBURY -- Sudbury public health officials have confirmed the city's first COVID-19-related death Thursday evening.



Health officials say the Greater Sudbury man was in his 70's and had recently returned from international travel.

He was tested on March 30.



"I am deeply saddened by this loss of life, and as a supportive, compassionate, and connected community, we extend our most sincere condolences to the family and friends,” said Dr. Penny Sutcliffe, Sudbury & Districts Medical Officer of Health. "More than ever, we need to be able to reach out and count on each other despite our critical need to keep physical distance from one another."

Out of respect for the family, health officials have not released the name of the deceased.

Greater Sudbury Mayor Brian Bigger has issued a statement on this tragic loss:

"I was saddened to hear of our community’s first fatality with regards to the COVID-19 virus and I extend my condolences to the family at this time on behalf of mayor and council. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this extremely difficult time.

This situation has escalated in such a short time - from when we were first informed of an infection in our community, to now, and this tragic ending. I implore every resident of Greater Sudbury to take the threat of this virus seriously. Social distancing is a must. If you have travelled – stay in and locked down for 14 days. If you have symptoms, isolate, call public health and wait for direction. We must be smart, stay at home and work together to get through this trying time. And, we will enforce the rules for those who choose not to obey them. We are a strong community, let's move forward together in the safest way possible."

This is a developing story…more to come.