Fort Smith police identify man arrested in connection with Mercy Hospital lockdown

FORT SMITH, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Fort Smith police have identified the man arrested in connection with the Monday morning lockdown at Mercy Hospital, according to a news release.

John West, 34, was located in a small box in the corner of an education classroom by search teams with FSPD and other local, state and federal agencies after a more than three-hour search.

West is facing aggravated assault, felony theft, and impairing the operation of a vital public facility charges. He is being taken to the Sebastian County Detention Center with no bond set.

West was reportedly in possession of a water pistol that was painted black to look like a real firearm. FSPD said he pointed it at a security guard after being confronted on the campus.

He was also in possession of a physician’s laptop and tablet.

“We would like to express our gratitude to all of our law enforcement partners, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), United States Marshals, Arkansas State Police, Arkansas Highway Patrol, Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office, Barling Police, Central City Police, Lavaca Police, and the Fort Smith Public School District Police Department, as well as Emergency Medical Services personnel for their prompt response and assistance,” the department said.

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