Lawsuit alleges security failures in murder of nursing assistant at Jefferson Hospital

The lawsuit alleges that the hospital’s safety failures resulted within the homicide of nursing assistant Anrae James on October 4, 2021.

The alleged gunman Stacey Hayes is accused of strolling into the hospital and opening hearth on James who died from his accidents.

Police say Hayes was carrying scrubs and physique armor and carrying a number of weapons, together with an AR-15-style rifle.

SEE ALSO: Accused Jefferson Hospital shooter discovered incompetent to face trial

After the capturing, police say Hayes fled in a U-Haul truck however was later noticed by officers within the metropolis’s Parkside part.

In keeping with police, the officers ordered Hayes to “drop the gun” a number of instances, however he ignored their verbal instructions and discharged his rifle towards the officers. 4 of the officers returned hearth.

Two officers suffered non-life-threatening accidents after being struck by the gunfire. Hayes was briefly hospitalized for his accidents.

SEE ALSO: Nursing assistant fatally shot by coworker at Jefferson Hospital was ‘good man,’ father says

Attorneys representing the household of Anrae James say he would nonetheless be alive immediately if guards had been at their publish to cease Hayes.

In keeping with the lawsuit, James and Hayes had been co-workers for a number of years. The pair reportedly had some private battle and it is alleged that James informed the hospital about his considerations.

“Upon info and perception, Anrae James requested that TJUH, its brokers, and its staff transfer Anrae James into a special a part of the Hospital the place Anrae James might work and never be close by to Hayes. Upon info and perception, TJUH ignored this request and/or did not well timed act on this request,” the lawsuit states.

Together with wrongful demise and negligence claims, the lawsuit additionally seeks a jury trial and unspecified financial damages.

Within the days following the lethal capturing, Jefferson Hospital introduced a collection of security adjustments.

James, 43, was a father of three youngsters.

“Anrae cherished everybody, particularly our three youngsters, and cherished his work, serving to individuals every single day. Like everybody else on the Hospital, Anrae relied on Jefferson to guard him whereas at work. He was purported to really feel secure there. We now have so many questions and may solely hope and pray they’re lastly answered at trial,” mentioned Barbara James, who was married to James for 11 years.