‘Remembered forever’: Albanian Canadian and medical communities mourn loss of London, Ont. doctor killed in head-on collision

Dr. Agron Alija of London, Ont. is seen in this undated image. (Source: Albanian Canadian Society of London/Instagram)

From treating victims in war-torn Kosovo to helping patients in emergency rooms in London, the medical community along with the Albanian Canadian Society of London are mourning the death of Dr. Agron Alija.

The well-respected physician died following a head-on crash along Fanshawe Park Road West near Pinnacle Parkway on Tuesday morning.

In a social media post from the Albanian Canadian Society of London, the doctor was described as a dedicated physician and emergency room doctor who was admired for his professionalism, compassion and commitment.

It goes on to say that his passing represents a profound loss to the Albanian community in London and the medical community at large.

“Throughout his distinguished career, he saved countless lives and stood as a symbol of devotion to the noble calling of medicine,” a post on Instagram reads. “Throughout his distinguished career, he saved countless lives and stood as a symbol of devotion to the noble calling of medicine.”

During the 1990’s Alija worked with various organizations aiding those affected by war in Kosovo.

He and his family fled and eventually joined a growing number of refugees in Canada.

After initially settling in Hamilton, Alija moved to London, completing his residency at Western University and eventually opening his own clinic.

The post on Instagram went on to say Alija was a “loving husband, devoted father, and loyal friend, cherished and respected by all who knew him.”

Along with being an emergency room physician he was also an associate professor at the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry.

Alija was 62 years old.

“Dr. Agron Alija will be forever remembered for his selfless service, his compassion, and the legacy of care he leaves behind,” the post reads. “Forever in our hearts!”

London police appeal to public

In an update from the London Police Service on Thursday, police have once again renewed their appeal to the public for footage from around the time of the crash.

Anyone who was in the area between 8:15 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. with dash cam or surveillance footage is urged to contact police at [phone] or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).