BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - QUESTIONS are today (OCT. 27) being asked how a man was able to commit suicide at the Federation’s major health institution without anyone noticing before the act occurred.
The Press Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister confirmed the death, writing in an official statement that the Ministry of Health regrets to inform the public that “at about 3:30 am today, Thursday 27th October, a male patient [was] admitted to the Psychiatric Ward of the Joseph N. France General Hospital for treatment committed suicide”.
The Ministry of Health did not release how the act was committed, but noted in a statement that “Prime Minister and Minister of Health, Dr. Terrance Drew, the staff at the Ministry of Health and the Joseph N. France General Hospital offer[s] full condolences and support to the family and loved ones of the deceased patient at this trying time”.
How did it occur, who was on duty at the time and why no one was monitoring the unidentified victim before he was able to commit the act, were some of the questions raised since the shocking news began spreading across the Federation.
According to the press statement, the Ministry of Health and the entire health workforce are said to be profoundly saddened by this tragic event.
“The family of the patient has been informed of the incident. An analysis of the situation will be undertaken immediately by the Joseph N. France General Hospital and its findings will be shared with the family,” the statement read.
Hospital authorities continue to review measures to ensure the safety of patients and staff remains a priority.
More information will follow as the investigation proceeds.
