A shooting occurred late Sunday night in the Emergency Department of Mercy Hospital in Buffalo, as reported by members of Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 1133.
The incident happened just before midnight when a patient arrived at the hospital armed with a firearm. Union representatives detailed that the patient was placed alone in an Emergency Department room where he subsequently discharged the weapon, resulting in self-inflicted injuries.
The individual was then transported to Erie County Medical Center for treatment. Fortunately, no staff members, patients, or visitors were harmed during the incident.
In response to this event, CWA Local 1133 has held a press conference outside the hospital to address their calls for enhanced safety measures to protect healthcare workers, patients, and visitors.
Joyce Markiewicz, President and CEO of Catholic Health, stated:
“Incidents like this are becoming increasingly frequent, and it is essential that our staff are not placed in harm's way. We are taking immediate action by adding a second armed guard at Mercy Hospital, who will be dedicated to the Emergency Department around the clock. Our leadership team is currently reviewing the findings of a recent third-party safety assessment conducted at Catholic Health. We have also reached out to our CWA partners to involve them in this discussion, and we will act on the recommended safety plan without delay.”
Patient Sustains Self-inflicted Gunshot Wound Inside Buffalo Hospital
Patient Sustains Self-Inflicted Gunshot Wound Inside Mercy Hospital Buffalo