A man walked into the emergency department of a US hospital, claimed to be armed, and issued threats, triggering a lockdown and a massive police response. The incident occurred at MultiCare Bonney Lake Hospital, near Seattle.
Incident Details
The man entered the emergency room at around 9:20 am local time (5:20 pm UK time) and made threats, according to Bonney Lake Police Chief Mark Berry. The hospital was immediately placed on lockdown, with Bonney Lake police officers and Pierce County Sheriff's Office deputies rushing to the scene. Patients were evacuated from the building.
The lone male suspect remains contained within the emergency department, authorities have said. SWAT officers and crisis negotiators are at the scene and are actively in talks with the man.
Response and Safety
Berry said there is no threat to the public outside the immediate vicinity and that authorities are hopeful for a peaceful resolution. In an official statement, MultiCare confirmed that all staff and patients are safe and that no injuries have been reported.
"We are currently responding to a security incident in the MultiCare Bonney Lake Emergency Department. All staff and patients are safe, and there are no reported injuries," the statement read. "Bonney Lake Police are on site and working with a negotiator. The safety and well-being of our patients, staff, and community remain our highest priorities. We are closely coordinating with law enforcement and will share additional information when available."
Ongoing Negotiations
The hospital confirmed that the Bonney Lake Emergency Department has been closed and is not accepting patients. Authorities have yet to release further details regarding the suspect or a possible motive. Negotiations were still ongoing on Friday.
