Summary of Events
On Thursday night, a man crashed his car through the emergency room doors of UM Capital Region Medical Center in Prince George’s County, Maryland, causing widespread panic among patients and staff.
The incident took place at approximately 7:45 p.m. when the man, driving a black Toyota sedan, forced his way through the glass doors of the ER. Once inside, he reportedly exited the vehicle holding a knife, which heightened the alarm in an already chaotic situation.
Initial Moments of Panic
Witnesses described a scene of terror as the car plowed into the emergency room. A woman who was accompanying her daughter to the hospital for registration recounted the suddenness of the crash and how it sent everyone in the ER into a panic.
“I thought it was an accident,” she explained, adding that her first reaction was to approach the car to assist what she initially assumed was an injured driver. However, her perception of the situation changed immediately when she saw the man exit the car holding something in his hand, which she soon recognized as a knife.
Another witness described the driver as “mad” and appearing to act with intent to harm. “The way he got out of the car, that wasn’t an accident. He looked like he wanted to hurt somebody,” he shared. This realization spurred those in the vicinity to flee for safety as quickly as possible.
Quick Response by Hospital Staff and Law Enforcement
Hospital staff immediately took action to protect everyone in the emergency room. Staff members acted quickly, barricading doors and guiding people to safe locations within the building. The quick thinking of hospital personnel was instrumental in keeping patients and others in the area out of harm's way.
Prince George’s County police and hospital security were also swift to respond, working together to contain the situation. Within moments, they were able to subdue the man, ensuring that no one was harmed. Authorities arrested the man, though his identity has not yet been released, nor have details regarding any charges he may face.
Community Reactions
The incident has left many residents and hospital visitors shaken, with some questioning the motive behind such a bold act. Witnesses expressed lingering fear and disbelief over the sudden threat in a typically secure setting like a hospital emergency room.
For one bystander, the traumatic moment underscored just how vulnerable people can feel in public spaces. “I thought he was hurt and just lost control. But when I saw that knife, I knew something wasn’t right, and we all just started running,” the witness recounted.
Ongoing Investigation
As of now, the police have not disclosed any specific motives or charges against the man involved in the incident. The Prince George’s County authorities are continuing their investigation to understand the reasons behind the man’s actions and whether he has a history of similar behavior.
Officials are expected to provide more details once they complete the initial investigation. The hospital has since resumed normal operations, though security measures have been under review since the incident.
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