QUETTA: A DawnNews cameraman tragically became the victim of a suicide bombing targeting a Quetta hospital as he performed his duty on Monday. The blast left 70 people dead and several others injured.

DawnNews Quetta bureau chief Syed Ali Shah confirmed the passing of Mehmood Khan, whom he described as a dedicated, young, God-fearing man who is survived by four children.

Mehmood was also the guardian to his brother’s three children, Shah said.

He added that Mehmood joined DawnNews several years ago as a security guard. He showed an interest in working in the newsroom and was soon given the role of a non-linear editor. For the last two years, he was working as a cameraman for DawnNews.

Shah further said Mehmood was shifted to the CMH Quetta in critical condition, where doctors first shifted him to the Intensive Care Unit and then to the operation theater.

"Doctors tried their best to save him, but he passed away while under treatment," said Shah.

An ambitious young man, Mehmood was preparing to apply for admission to a Masters in Mass Communication.

The blast at civil hospital took place soon after dozens of lawyers gathered at the hospital following the killing of the Balochistan Bar Association President, who was shot dead this morning.

Several media personnel were present at the hospital to cover the protest. Another cameraman from Aaj TV, Shehzad Khan, was also killed in the explosion.