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A man has been charged after allegedly shooting two security guards and wounding a nurse at a western Sydney hospital, as police investigate possible mental health and drug issues.
The background: Police responded late on Friday evening to reports that a man had attacked several staff members at Westmead Hospital.
The 39-year-old man allegedly cut two male guards, aged 24 and 25, and dislocated the shoulder of a third. A 29-year-old nurse, also a man, was injured in the attack.
The four are “all OK” with minor injuries that were treated at the scene and did not require hospital admission, a police spokesman said.
Health Services Union NSW has responded to the incident, calling “senseless violence” against hospital staff horrific.
The most important quote: “Over the past decade, we have experienced shootings, stabbings and flesh torn from the bodies of our members. For the workers on the receiving end, the trauma will continue long after the physical scars have healed.” – Gerard Hayes, Secretary of the Health Services Union NSW.
What else you need to know: The man is suspected of five crimes. He was refused bail to appear at Parramatta Local Court on Sunday. Police will look into the man’s mental health and drug use to see if these contributed to the alleged attack as investigations continue.
What happens now: The union said it will push for more safety numbers and powers in hospitals, and better personal protective equipment.
Readers seeking mental health support can contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. More information is available at .
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