ETMC Responds to Stabbing

TYLER – East Texas Medical Center Tyler says it’s taking steps to increase its level of on-campus security, including the immediate deployment of more security staff members. That’s in the wake of a Monday night stabbing at the hospital and another recent attack there.

According to Art Chance, ETMC Tyler’s vice president of operations, “With recent events, the security department has also evaluated on-campus security associated with cameras and lighting. To that end, we have made improvements to our overall system and will continue to upgrade our security technology. In both incidents that occurred recently, clear video images of the assailant were obtained, which are assisting law enforcement investigations.

“Maintaining a safe environment requires that everyone remain vigilant and on guard. Employees and visitors should be aware of their surroundings at all times and report any suspicious individuals loitering on campus. ETMC security escorts to and from vehicles are available to anyone on request. Anyone wishing to report a suspicious individual may contact the ETMC security department at 903-531-8800 or call the Tyler Police Department.”

In the latest incident, an employee was stabbed in the arm in front of the hospital as she was leaving around 10:30 Monday night. The nurse said a man tried to grab her purse, then stabbed her and fled on foot with her purse. The victim was treated for a non-life threatening wound. The suspect, who is pictured here, is described as a thin black male approximately 5’8″ tall, weighing approximately 140-150 lbs. The suspect was wearing a black hooded coat, red shirt, dark pants and tennis shoes and authorities said his head appeared to be shaved. The suspect fled southbound from the hospital.