KINGSTON, Jamaica –The South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA) says it is working closely with the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and other agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the death of a male patient who escaped from the Kingston Public Hospital on Wednesday.

SERHA in a media release on Thursday, said the 24-year-old man, who was a patient at the Kingston Public Hospital, early Wednesday morning forcibly breached medical restraints, assaulted a member of staff, and left the hospital premises.

The authority further stated that the incident was immediately reported to the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the patient was subsequently returned to the hospital by police about an hour later with a gunshot wound and was pronounced dead on arrival.

“SERHA is working closely with the JCF and other relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the patient’s escape and subsequent death. All appropriate protocols are being reviewed to establish the facts of the case and to implement additional security measures where necessary,” SERHA said.

“We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased during this difficult time. We are also providing support to the staff members affected by this incident,” the authority added.