Two security guards restrained the shooter moments after he opened fire around 2 a.m. Sunday. The guards were not armed and held the suspect down until police arrived to take him into custody, according to the report.
The victims are Cynthia Zingsheim, 88, a patient, and 36-year-old Carrie Rouzer, a Parrish Medical Center employee who was patient sitting with Ms. Zingsheim, according to the Orlando Sentinel.
The 29-year-old suspect, David Owens, of Titusville, is being held without bond in the Brevard County Jail on two counts of first-degree premeditated murder.
“Investigators have not been able to determine a motive at this time, nor any connection to the victims,” said Commander Todd Hutchinson. “They are continuing to investigate this tragic incident.”
Mr. Owens entered the 210-bed hospital through the emergency room and went to the third floor, where he then entered Ms. Zingsheim’s hospital room, according to the Orlando Sentinel.
Hospital spokesperson Natalie Sellers said hospital security, staff and volunteers followed the hospital’s active shooter policy.
“Parrish Medical Center did have a plan,” Police Chief John Lau said during a news conference, according to the report. “And there’s no doubt that their action saved lives.”
Mr. Owens’ record shows he was found guilty of battery to a police officer in 2011. In 2012, a judge twice ordered him to undergo a psychological evaluation. Court records also show prior arrests for possession of cocaine and marijuana and domestic battery were dismissed, according to the report.
Parrish Medical Center has resumed normal operations.
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