ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. — A local community is remembering a beloved surgeon credited with saving thousands of lives in St. Augustine.
Dr. Warren Kluger died late Monday night after the Florida Highway Patrol said he lost control of his SUV, and was ejected.
Troopers say he was not wearing a seat belt when he lost control of his Lexus on State Road 207 in St. Johns County late Monday night near Elkton.
“My mama just cried, she just cried and she just cried,” Stacie Jackson said.
Jackson’s mom, Wanda, is one of Kluger’s patients who stopped by his St. Augustine office after hearing the tragic news.
“My heart just dropped,” Jackson said, “He saved my mama’s life, he’s the best doctor I ever met.”
Kluger’s daughter, Michelle, told Action News Jax her father was loved by everyone he met, and he saved thousands of lives in St. Augustine. Michelle calls her father her mentor, and is following in his footsteps by going to medical school.
Flagler Hospital sent a notice to staff Tuesday about doctor Kluger’s passing.
"It is with heavy hearts we share with you the passing of Dr. Warren Kluger. Dr. Kluger was a respected and dedicated surgeon, a part of the Flagler Hospital medical staff for almost 40 years and most recently served as Chief of Surgery. He was also an active member of First Coast Health Alliance. Dr. Kluger was known for spending countless hours at the hospital and was loved by his patients and colleagues. Our thoughts and prayers remain with Dr. Kluger's wife, children and all those closest to him during this difficult time."
Kluger worked at Flagler Hospital since 1978, and had most recently served as chief of surgery.