Fort Pierce authorities are on an active search for an escaped patient from HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital who was under a mandatory mental health evaluation known as a Baker Act hold; law enforcement currently tracks his whereabouts. The man, described as having brown hair with scratches on his forehead and adorned with tattoos, escaped today, last seen wearing a black t-shirt and black shorts, according to WPTV.
In light of the escape, Indian River State College, located in close proximity to the hospital at 1700 South 23rd Street, issued an alert just before 11:30 a.m. indicating that the individual was heading eastbound toward U.S. 1; meanwhile the college reassured its community by stating, "You are free to move about your campus" and "Thank you for your cooperation in this matter," as reported by both WPTV and WFLX. An aerial search has been initiated, with a helicopter deployed over the area as part of the operational response to track the escaped patient.
The Fort Pierce Police Department assuring the public through WFLX that there is currently no danger posed to the community despite the history of violence associated with the escaped individual.
While specific details regarding the man's past or the circumstances that led to his Baker Act hold have not been disclosed, the police encourage vigilance as they continue their pursuit, and no campuses are under lockdown.
