Toronto doctor charged with first-degree murder

[projekktor id=’26318′]

A Toronto neurosurgeon is facing first degree murder charges in the death of his wife, a family physician. The neurosurgeon has patents across the golden horseshoe and we spoke to one man who was expecting to have surgery this month, he was shocked and saddened by the news.

Robert Disano was diagnosed with a rare spinal condition called syringomyaleya. Three years ago he made the trek from Welland to Toronto to see Dr. Mohammad Shamji, a Toronto neurosurgeon he grew to respect and call a friend.

Dr. Mohammad Shamji was charged with first degree murder on Friday in the death of his wife, 40-year-old Elana Shamji, a family physician. Police say she was strangled and beaten to death.

The trip from Welland to Toronto is about two hours without traffic, it’s a long way to go to see a doctor but for patients like Robert Disano it’s worth it to see someone you trust. He’s one of many of Dr. Shamji’s patients left wondering what happens next. A question that was also raised at Queen’s Park today with many patients including a woman in the U.S. who was waiting to have specialized surgery performed by Shamji.

We received a statement from the University Health Network, they said they understand this situation is very distressing for patients. The division of neurosurgery worked over the weekend to transfer the care of patients to another spine surgeon. If a patient has a procedure scheduled, we are in the process of contacting those patients so they will know who will be handling their case. Doctors wishing to refer a patient must refer to another member of the neurosurgical team.

Dr. Mohammed Shamji will be back in court December 20th.