NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — Detectives with the Newport News Police Department are still investigating the circumstances surrounding an apparent murder-suicide at Riverside Regional Medical Center.
On Sunday, officers were called to the hospital after they said a wife shot her husband and then herself inside a hospital room, according to police.
Authorities said both were in their 70s. “I don’t think anyone woke up this morning and think that would happen or could happen,” said Police Chief Steve Drew Sunday morning outside the hospital.
Following the incident, many on social media offered prayers to the family and questioned safety at the hospital. Several people would like to know how the gun got into the hospital. The Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association represents 26 health systems and 111 hospitals across the Commonwealth.
While the association could not comment on Sunday’s event, they said safety was a top priority.
“Hospitals across Virginia, both individually and as a part of the VHHA health care and safety and security workgroup, are all actively considering and acting and working through these issues as they implement or consider the pathway to enhance safety and security features at their facilities,” said Julian Walker, the Vice President of Communications with Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association.
Some safety features include posting signage to prohibit guns being brought inside and security teams on campuses. According to a survey, violent crime rose at U.S. hospitals. However, the Leapfrog Safety group reports Virginia hospitals rank number two in safety.
Riverside Health released this statement regarding the incident:
"We’re deeply saddened by yesterday’s events. Our thoughts and prayers are with those impacted.
Our primary focus is the health and safety of our team members, Riverside patients, and their loved ones. We regularly review our safety protocols and procedures to ensure Riverside Health and its care facilities are safe places to heal and work. We will continue to review our safety protocols and make improvements to ensure the safety of those who work and choose Riverside for their care."
If you or anyone you know may be experiencing a difficult time, you can always call or text the suicide and crisis hotline at 988. The hotline is open 24 hours.