A message from UPMC regarding the tragic events of March 8, 2012

In a tragic shooting on Thursday, March 8, 2012, at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC, two people were killed, including one employee, and seven people were injured. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the families and victims of this tragic incident.

Following are comments about the event from Jeffrey Romoff, UPMC President and CEO; Claudia Roth, PhD, president and chief executive officer of Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC; and Elizabeth Concordia, Executive Vice President, UPMC, and President, Hospital and Community Services.

Jeffrey Romoff, UPMC President and CEO

“We are all deeply saddened by the tragic events yesterday. Our thoughts and prayers go to the victims and their families.

Though this senseless violence struck our UPMC family at its core, it vividly demonstrated yet again the consummate professionalism, compassion, skill, and dedication that are the hallmarks of what we do each day for everyone who suffers similar tragedies and illnesses.

We are extraordinarily proud of our employees and are deeply grateful for their commitment to our patients and families.”

Claudia Roth, PhD, President and Chief Executive Officer of Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our colleague and friend yesterday. It was clear that he was truly a leader among our staff, and he was beloved by the geriatric patients whom he cared for every day. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this time. This senseless act of violence has had a profound impact on all of us who knew and admired him. He will be greatly missed.”

Elizabeth Concordia, Executive Vice President, UPMC, and President, Hospital and Community Services

“The safety and well-being of our patients and staff always have been and continue to be of utmost importance.  UPMC’s facilities treat thousands of patients, receive thousands of visitors and employ tens of thousands of professionals.  While UPMC’s current security measures are in line with the standards nationwide, all procedures are being rigorously reviewed. 

The trade-off between public access and security is an issue all hospitals in major metropolitan areas have struggled with in recent years. Unfortunately, random acts of violence can’t be predicted. In addition, we are providing comprehensive support and counseling to our employees and co-workers of the victims.”   

Western Psychiatric is offering on-site resources and tools to support staff, patients, and families during this challenging time.

Counseling and crisis resources are available for individuals who may want to discuss feelings and thoughts related to the incident. Contact re:solve Crisis Network at 1-888-7-YOU CAN (1-888-796-8226).

Note: As a health care organization, personal health information is protected and not shared, including those who may have been involved in a violent crime.

©  UPMC | Affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences
Supplemental content provided by A.D.A.M. Health Solutions. All rights reserved.

For help in finding a doctor or health service that suits your needs, call the UPMC Referral Service at 412-647-UPMC (8762) or 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). Select option 1.

UPMC is an equal opportunity employer. UPMC policy prohibits discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, genetics, sexual orientation, marital status, familial status, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected group status. Further, UPMC will continue to support and promote equal employment opportunity, human dignity, and racial, ethnic, and cultural diversity. This policy applies to admissions, employment, and access to and treatment in UPMC programs and activities. This commitment is made by UPMC in accordance with federal, state, and/or local laws and regulations.

Medical information made available on UPMC.com is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should not rely entirely on this information for your health care needs. Ask your own doctor or health care provider any specific medical questions that you have. Further, UPMC.com is not a tool to be used in the case of an emergency. If an emergency arises, you should seek appropriate emergency medical services.

For UPMC Mercy Patients: As a Catholic hospital, UPMC Mercy abides by the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services, as determined by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. As such, UPMC Mercy neither endorses nor provides medical practices and/or procedures that contradict the moral teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.

© UPMC
Pittsburgh, PA, USA UPMC.com