Security Guard Bradley Haas Fatally Shot at New Hampshire Hospital

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Security Guard Fatally Shot at New Hampshire Hospital: A Tragic Loss for the Community

Bradley Haas, a former police officer with over 20 years of experience in law enforcement, was tragically shot and killed while working as a security guard at New Hampshire Hospital in Concord. The 63-year-old Haas had retired in 2008 after serving as the police chief in Franklin, a small town near Concord. The incident took place on Friday afternoon, and authorities have identified the suspect as John Madore, who was shot and killed by a state trooper assigned to the hospital.

The shooting occurred in the hospital’s lobby, but thanks to the swift action of the trooper and Haas, no patients or other staff members were injured. Haas was immediately given CPR on-site and was rushed to Concord Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The New Hampshire Department of Safety Commissioner, Robert L. Quinn, praised Haas as a hero and expressed his condolences to Haas’ loved ones. “Officer Haas was a dedicated member of the safety team who died a hero protecting the patients and staff of New Hampshire Hospital,” said Quinn in a statement.

New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella also commended Haas for his bravery, stating that his actions helped prevent a potentially more tragic outcome. Hospital executives, doctors, and nurses expressed their shock and sadness over the incident, emphasizing their commitment to supporting the affected patients and staff during this difficult time.

This unfortunate incident highlights the increasing levels of violence witnessed in healthcare facilities across the country. Hospitals have become the setting for several fatal shootings in recent months, raising concerns about the safety of healthcare workers and patients. In July, a security guard named Bobby Smallwood was shot and killed at Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center in Portland, Oregon. Following this incident, the hospital implemented stricter security measures, including the installation of metal detectors.

Similarly, in July, a hand surgeon named Ben Mauck was fatally shot in an orthopedic clinic near Memphis, Tennessee. Another tragic incident occurred in the emergency department of a hospital in southern Indiana, where a police officer lost his life. In May, a CDC employee was shot and killed at a medical complex owned by Northside Hospital in Atlanta, with four others sustaining injuries. These incidents have prompted hospitals nationwide to consider implementing enhanced security measures, such as metal detectors and additional surveillance cameras.

Paul Sarnese, a security consultant, suggests that hospitals should engage in dialogue with their employees to gain insights and perspectives on improving safety measures. This proactive approach can help address the growing issue of violence in healthcare settings. Healthcare workers, including doctors and nurses, often face assaults and abusive behavior from patients and their families, a problem that has been exacerbated by the ongoing pandemic.

In response to a nurse assault in September, the Lifespan health system launched a public campaign to raise awareness about violence in healthcare facilities. The campaign included an online petition calling for a zero-tolerance policy towards violence targeting healthcare workers.

As the community mourns the loss of Bradley Haas, his former colleagues at the Franklin Township police department have announced that officers will wear mourning bands in his memory, and the department’s flag will fly at half-staff. Haas had dedicated his post-retirement years to serving his community as a security officer, ensuring the safety and well-being of those at the New Hampshire State Hospital.

The tragic events at New Hampshire Hospital serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for improved security measures in healthcare facilities. It is crucial for hospital administrators and leaders to prioritize the safety of their staff and patients by implementing comprehensive strategies to prevent violence and protect those who provide essential care..