Physician held at gunpoint at Tennessee hospital by man demanding drugs

Ayla Ellison -

Police say a man held a physician at gunpoint Wednesday in an attempt to obtain drugs at Sumner Regional Medical Center in Gallatin, Tenn., according to The Tennessean.

Authorities say Terry Christenson entered the hospital's lobby with a gun just before 5 p.m. He walked to the nurse's station, where he allegedly pointed the gun at a physician and demanded drugs. 

Police officers arrived on the scene and took Mr. Christenson into custody.

The hospital went on lockdown for about an hour due to the incident, according to NewsChannel 5. In a Facebook post Wednesday evening, Sumner Regional Medical said its emergency room was open and officials had no reason to believe there was any remaining threat.

"We also want to say how much we appreciate our employees and staff and the Gallatin Police Department and Sumner County Emergency Management Agency for their quick response to ensure the safety of our patients, visitors and staff," the hospital said.

No one was injured in the incident, and charges are currently pending against Mr. Christenson, according to The Tennessean.

More healthcare news:

CHS divests 11 hospitals, adds 3 more to sale pipeline
HCA to change its name — again
Cleveland Clinic President and CEO Dr. Toby Cosgrove announces plans to step down in 2017

Copyright © 2024 Becker's Healthcare. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy. Cookie Policy. Linking and Reprinting Policy.