Lowveld community outraged and devastated at Mbombela anaesthetist’s murder
Tributes for Mbombela Dr Nicholas Procter have poured in from friends and colleagues following his murder at a flat in the city on Thursday February 1.
The Lowveld community have reacted in shock, outrage and devastation following the news of the murder of Mbombela anaesthetist Dr Nicholas Procter (40).
Procter was reported missing when he had not shown up for work on Thursday morning, February 1. His vehicle was found later that morning, parked on the Elawini bridge.
Some information led the authorities to a flat on a property near the bridge, where his body was found later that day, with his hands and feet tied in a flat. Emer-G-Med declared Procter dead at 16:28.
Close friends, family and Lowvelders shared fond memories of Procter.
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Justin van Staden a close friend wrote on Facebook: “Nic was not just a friend, but a pillar of support and care for my family. His love for us knew no bounds, always going the extra mile, not just as a dear friend, but also as our trusted doctor. You always made yourself available as our anaesthetist, ensuring you were present for the birth of our boys. You changed your schedules just to be there, showcasing your unwavering love and commitment.”
“My heart is absolutely shattered. I loved you so much. You meant the world to our little family. We will make sure you are remembered and celebrated like the absolute gem of a human you were. We will miss you terribly,” said another friend of Procter’s, Robyn van Staden.
Monique Entrés said that she valued his friendship and that he lived his best life.
Dr André Hattingh and Joyce Crompvoets of Pediatric Care Africa (PCA) told Lowvelder, “Rarely does one have the privilege to meet a special person and doctor such as Dr Nicholas Procter.
“Dr Procter was with no exception, always ready and willing to help us at PCA with children who required surgeries. Your caring and friendly personality will never be forgotten and thank you for what you have done for us over the past years. We strive to be like you Doc,” said Hattingh and Crompvoets.
Mediclinic Nelspruit had the following to say: “Dr Procter worked as an associate of Nelanest Anaesthetic Association at Mediclinic Nelspruit since 2019. He was well respected and loved by his colleagues and staff alike for his courteous and gentle demeanour.
“As a dedicated colleague, Dr Procter was recently nominated for the new SASA Council (SA Society of Anaesthesiologists) and surely would have been elected, as he is well known nationally for his dedication to anaesthetics. He certainly leaves a legacy through his no-nonsense attitude and dedication to medicine. We offer our sincere condolences to his family and friends. May his soul rest in peace.”
The Lowveld community members took to Lowvelder’s Facebook page, posting messages of condolences on the article that Procter had been found murdered.
Hanko von Schlichting posted: “This breaks me a little. I had the pleasure of working with him in theatre multiple times in 2022, and he was always ready with a smile or a joke with the surgeons. Rest in peace, Nic.”
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Barbara Davids wrote: “My condolences to Nick’s parents and family. What sad news this is. My heart breaks for the loss of a remarkable person and doctor. May his soul rest in peace.”
Another community member, Merelda Mac Nair posted: “Ai nee, dis baie hartseer om te lees van sulke goeie narkotiseer se afsterwe. Hy was ’n goeie dokter en so vriendelik. So mooi mens. Wat ’n groot verlies vir Nelspruit. RIV dr. Procter. Innige meegevoel aan sy geliefdes.”
Elna Myburgh posted: “I have no words….. [sic] People are being murdered/killed in our beautiful Nelspruit….[sic] What the heck is going on! RIP, my deepest sympathy to his family.”
Leanne Kim Havenaar posted: “Absolutely shocking. Nic was an incredible asset to the anaesthetic community and had such a promising future ahead of him! My prayers are with his friends and family.”
Captain Magonseni Nkosi, a provincial police spokesperson, said there is currently no update available as it is an ongoing investigation.
Albert Gryvenstein of Bossies Community Justice said that he is consulting with the police and they are currently following up on leads.
