Bronx-Lebanon Hospital attack

Bronx-Lebanon Hospital Attack

The Bronx-Lebanon Hospital Attack occurred on June 30, 2017, at the Bronx-Lebanon Hospital in The Bronx, New York City. The incident was a tragic event that resulted in the death of one person and injuries to several others. The attack was perpetrated by a former employee of the hospital, Dr. Henry Bello, who opened fire inside the facility.

Background

Bronx-Lebanon Hospital, now known as BronxCare Health System, is one of the largest providers of outpatient services in New York City and has a long history of serving the healthcare needs of the Bronx community. Dr. Henry Bello, the attacker, was a former family physician at the hospital. Reports suggest that Bello had resigned from his position in 2015 amid sexual harassment allegations.

The Attack

On the day of the attack, Dr. Bello entered the hospital armed with an AR-15 rifle hidden under a lab coat. He began shooting on the 16th and 17th floors of the hospital. Dr. Bello set fire to the nurse's station on the 16th floor, presumably to hinder the efforts of law enforcement and emergency responders. The attack resulted in the death of Dr. Tracy Sin-Yee Tam, who was covering a shift for a colleague. Six other people were injured during the incident, including hospital staff and a patient.

Aftermath

The attack prompted a massive response from the New York City Police Department (NYPD) and the Fire Department of New York (FDNY). The hospital was placed on lockdown, and patients were evacuated from the affected floors. Dr. Bello ultimately took his own life at the scene.

In the aftermath of the attack, there was an outpouring of support for the victims and the hospital from the community and healthcare professionals around the country. The incident raised questions about hospital security and the measures in place to protect staff and patients from violence.

Impact on Hospital Security

The Bronx-Lebanon Hospital attack highlighted the need for enhanced security measures in healthcare facilities. In response, hospitals across the country reviewed and, in many cases, increased their security protocols, including the implementation of metal detectors, security cameras, and increased presence of armed security personnel.

Legacy

The attack at Bronx-Lebanon Hospital remains a somber reminder of the potential for violence in healthcare settings. It has led to ongoing discussions about the balance between maintaining open, accessible healthcare facilities and ensuring the safety of patients, visitors, and staff.

See Also

• Hospital security
• Workplace violence in healthcare
• Mass shootings in the United States