PITTSBURGH — A nurse from UPMC Altoona was critically injured on Saturday after being attacked by a patient, prompting an emergency airlift to a hospital in Pittsburgh for urgent surgery. The incident unfolded in the hospital’s emergency room just before 10 a.m., according to law enforcement reports.
UPMC police arrived at the scene to find a male nurse unconscious on the floor, suffering from significant injuries to his head and face. Other nurses were already providing assistance to the injured colleague while awaiting the police’s arrival.
The attacker, identified as 40-year-old Bradley Lloyd from Tyrone, allegedly attempted to flee the scene as the nurse rendered aid. When officers intervened, they reported that Lloyd resisted arrest, prompting them to draw a Taser. He ultimately surrendered and was restrained on a bed before being sedated.
The injured nurse was subsequently diagnosed with a fractured skull, a brain bleed, a broken tooth, nasal obstruction, hematomas, and various lacerations. His condition remains undisclosed following the emergency surgery at Presbyterian Hospital.
UPMC issued a statement regarding the incident, expressing their shock and sadness over the attack. While respecting the privacy of their staff and families, they conveyed optimism based on positive updates. The hospital thanked its police and emergency staff for their quick response, which helped mitigate further harm.
This violent outburst has raised concerns about safety in healthcare settings. UPMC acknowledged the incident’s potential impact on staff and said it would provide resources for team members affected by the event, including counseling and spiritual support.
Authorities have charged Lloyd with multiple offenses, including aggravated assault, simple assault, and disorderly conduct, as the investigation into the violent encounter continues. The hospital is actively reviewing its security protocols to better protect staff and patients in the future.