CHARLESTON, W.Va. — A man was shot and killed by police after he threatened others with a knife inside the emergency room of CAMC General Hospital early Friday morning. The incident unfolded shortly after midnight, leading to a swift response from law enforcement.
According to Charleston Police Chief Scott Dempsey, the man entered the emergency room seeking treatment and became increasingly agitated as he waited. Reports indicate that he discharged a fire extinguisher during his time in the waiting area, escalating the situation.
The man reportedly locked himself in a bathroom before emerging with a knife, prompting hospital staff to call the police. Officers arrived on the scene and attempted to deescalate the confrontation. As this was taking place, the man confronted another individual when an elevator door opened.
Dempsey stated that at that moment, police intervened, firing on the man to neutralize the threat. “The suspect was struck by gunfire from a CPD officer and it ultimately halted the attack,” he explained. The armed individual fell to the floor, where officers quickly took control and ensured the safety of those nearby.
Despite being treated for his injuries, the man later died at the hospital. Dempsey confirmed that the individual attacked in the elevator sustained only minor injuries.
In reflecting on the incident, Dempsey emphasized the difficult nature of police work. “This is a very unfortunate situation. Officers don’t take this kind of action lightly, but we are trained to protect lives,” he remarked. He praised his team’s prompt and deliberate response, asserting that their actions likely prevented further harm.
The investigation will be handed over to the Kanawha County Prosecutor’s Office once all details have been gathered. Meanwhile, the emergency room at CAMC was temporarily placed on diversion and locked down for two hours but has since resumed normal operations.
In a statement, CAMC expressed gratitude to the Charleston Police Department for their swift action and confirmed their full cooperation during the ongoing investigation. They urged that further inquiries be directed to law enforcement as the situation continues to unfold.