Highlands County, FL. - In a shocking turn of events that unfolded earlier today, the quiet morning at AdventHealth Sebring was shattered by the sound of gunfire, leading to an intense and terrifying moment for those within its walls. At around 11:26 a.m., Highlands County Sheriff’s Office deputies rushed to the scene following reports of an active shooter situation at the hospital, marking a somber moment for the community.
The incident began when a 66-year-old man from Sebring arrived at the hospital with his adult son, seeking medical attention for the latter. The visit quickly spiraled out of control as the son became combative, prompting hospital staff to place him in a mental health room within the emergency department for his and others' safety.
It was within the confines of this room that the situation took a tragic turn. The father, for reasons still under investigation, drew a handgun and fired several shots into the wall. Authorities believe this act was intended to clear the room of other individuals. In a devastating climax to the confrontation, the father then turned the gun on his son, who was lying on a bed, before ultimately shooting himself. Both men were pronounced dead at the scene.
Statement on Incident at AdventHealth Sebring sent to ISC News & Media:
"Following the incident that occurred in the Emergency Room at AdventHealth Sebring late Thursday morning, we want to reassure everyone that no team members were harmed. We continue to offer confidential mental health resources and our chaplains are currently on site to support our AdventHealth Sebring family.
Team members from nearby AdventHealth facilities have also been brought in to allow those employees who were working at the time of the incident to return home.
AdventHealth Sebring will continue to support the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office as they investigate. The Emergency Room at AdventHealth Sebring has resumed normal operations."
Miraculously, no other injuries were reported, a small mercy in an otherwise heartbreaking incident. The hospital was immediately placed on lockdown as a precaution, and EMS traffic was diverted to nearby facilities to ensure the safety of other patients and staff while law enforcement secured the area.
The Highlands County Sheriff’s Office is currently leading a thorough investigation into the events that led up to the shooting. The motive behind the father’s actions remains unclear, and investigators are working diligently to piece together the circumstances that culminated in this tragic outcome.
Our prayers are with the family, staff, and victims of this tragic event. Stay tuned to ISC News & Media for the latest developments.
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