Yesterday morning, three nurses were struck by a vehicle in a hit-and-run incident outside Penn Presbyterian Medical Center in West Philadelphia. The nurses were attending to a man who had been dropped off in a silver Jeep Cherokee with multiple gunshot wounds. Authorities report that the driver fled the scene, leaving one nurse in critical condition.
According to FOX 29, the nurses were immediately rushed to assist the 28-year-old gunshot victim when they were hit by the driver, believed to be a male in his twenties, as he sped away from the emergency department. Two of the nurses, ages 37 and 51, sustained injuries to their legs and backs, while the 51-year-old also suffered head injuries. They were declared stable, but a third nurse, 36, is suffering from facial injuries and internal bleeding, placing him in critical condition.
The 28-year-old gunshot victim, who police believe was shot on the 1300 block of Belmont Avenue, also suffered head injuries as a result of being struck by the vehicle. As per a CBS News report, he was believed to be in critical condition. City Council member Jamie Gauthier expressed her dismay and extended prayers for the swift recovery of the injured nurses, further praising the emergency room team for their dedication in the face of such a traumatic incident.
A spokesperson for Penn Medicine stated that the incident is devastating for staff and highlights the impact of gun violence on communities. Nicole Hoke, chief nursing officer at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, acknowledged the important role of healthcare workers and emphasized the need for safety in their mission to provide care, recognizing the emotional and operational effects of such violence.
Later in the day, authorities recovered the suspect vehicle in Upper Darby, as detailed by Philadelphia police sources to 6ABC. The Jeep, which was reported as a rental vehicle overdue since August, was towed for further investigation. The search for the driver continues. Penn Medicine has offered support resources to the nurses, their families, and staff affected by the incident.
Authorities urge anyone with information related to the shooting or hit-and-run to contact the Philadelphia Police Department's tip line at 215-686-TIPS (8477).
