HOUSTON – Many questions remain after the parking garage stabbing and robbery of a Houston Methodist Hospital employee about what the hospital will do, and how it plans to protect employees from similar incidents in the future.
A quick summary of what happened
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Houston Police said the attack happened around 6:47 a.m. on Monday inside Garage 1 at the Houston Methodist campus at 6519 Fannin Street in the Texas Medical Center, where the nurse was stabbed in the upper body on Level 5.
She was taken to Memorial Hermann Hospital, and hospital officials later told employees she was expected to be released the same day.
Perry Green, 46, was arrested and charged with aggravated kidnapping and aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon in connection with the stabbing and robbery.
Authorities previously said the incident did not appear to be a targeted attack. Houston Methodist temporarily placed some buildings on lockdown after the stabbing and announced increased patrols and security visibility across the Texas Medical Center area.
What changes is Houston Methodist making since the stabbing?
Many are asking what measures will be implemented to better protect hospital employees, especially those working early morning or overnight hours.
The hospital released a statement to employees that included several safety tips.
However, the statement did not mention any direct changes to security or safety protocols
READ THE FULL STATMENT BELOW:
“As you have seen in the media this week, an employee was attacked in a Texas Medical Center garage on Monday. This does not appear to be planned attack on our employee or Houston Methodist Hospital. However, this serves as an important reminder to always remain aware of your surroundings. Robert Schwartz, executive vice president and chief innovation officer, highlighted these safety tips in an email this week. Remember these key points as you are out in public.
- Always keep your valuables close to your body.
- Do not park next to a vehicle with dark-tinted windows that can prevent you from seeing if someone is sitting inside.
- Park in a high-visibility area and check for lighting in case you leave when it is dark.
- Ask a security officer to escort you to your vehicle if you feel uncomfortable.
- Walk briskly, confidently and directly through the parking lot. Be cautious of people handing out flyers or asking questions.
- Have your car keys ready to unlock your car door. Look around and under your car and observe other vehicles parked nearby for suspicious people before approaching.
- Watch for people who may be following you. If you suspect that you are being followed, report it immediately to security or police.
- Glance into the back seat and at the floorboards of your car before entering to check for anyone hiding inside.
- Do not sit in a parked vehicle. If a stranger approaches your vehicle, sound your horn.
- Do not open your car door or window for anyone. If someone is standing near your unoccupied vehicle, do not approach it.
“Please remain vigilant. If you observe any suspicious activity or have safety concerns, you can go directly to your supervisor or click here for more information on contacting our Public Safety team
“Events like this can be difficult for individuals who were involved as well as for those who witnessed the situation or are feeling its effects. Resources are available to support our team.”