Bronx-Lebanon Hospital Active Shooter Training Likely Saved Lives
New York City – On Friday, June 30, 2017, a former doctor at Bronx-Lebanon Hospital Center shot and killed another doctor and injured six other staff members in what is now being investigated as a case of workplace violence.
Despite the tragic events, prior active shooter response training for hospital staff is believed to have saved numerous lives.
The shooter, Dr. Henry Bello, 45, was forced to resign from Bronx-Lebanon Hospital following sexual harassment allegations. Hiding an AR-15 under his lab coat, he used his employee badge to bypass security and enter the hospital.
When he found that his intended target wasn’t present, Bello opened fire, killing one doctor and wounding six others before setting himself on fire and taking his own life.
Fortunately, the hospital’s proactive approach to employee safety and security through active shooter training played a key role in reducing the potential for even greater loss of life.
According to Chris Sutton, an active shooter trainer, the hospital's preparedness was critical. "The best way to prepare for an active shooter is with expert training. Too many people think it will never happen to them," Sutton explained.
Sutton further suggested that there may have been red flags indicating Bello’s potential for violence, such as his forced resignation. "From the news reports, he was asked to resign based on sexual harassment allegations.
His photo should have been circulated at all restricted entrances so security could stop him from accessing his targets. Good active shooter training starts with threat assessment and prevention."
Sutton highlights the importance of training that goes beyond immediate response, emphasizing the role of prevention and threat recognition in ensuring employee safety.