Evacuation and Emergency Response

On Wednesday evening, Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital in San Bernardino County was the scene of heightened emergency response due to reports of a potential gunman in the emergency department. This prompted an evacuation of the facility around 8 p.m.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department released a statement at 8:10 p.m. clarifying that the incident was likely a case of “swatting,” a malicious act where individuals make false claims to create panic and emergency responses.

Investigation Results and Hospital Response

Following a thorough investigation, it was confirmed that there was no active threat present. Briana Pastorino, a spokesperson for the hospital, stated, “After a thorough investigation, it was confirmed there is no active threat on campus and normal business operations have resumed.” She added that law enforcement would remain on site to conduct any further necessary inquiries.

Initial Alerts and Community Impact

The situation was first communicated to the public around 6:40 p.m., with authorities actively clearing the hospital premises in response to reports of an armed individual. A text alert was sent to students on campus and nearby medical buildings, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation by stating, “This is not a drill: Initiate immediate protective actions. If confronted with a threat, RUN, HIDE, FIGHT,” as reported by ABC7.

The hospital, serving approximately 90,000 patients annually, is part of the larger Loma Linda University Medical Center, located at 11234 Anderson St. in Loma Linda.

Public Response and Safety Measures

As law enforcement deployed a significant presence, including vehicles and helicopters, the surrounding area experienced notable traffic disruptions. Helicopter footage captured individuals being evacuated from the hospital in a calm manner, indicative of an organized response to the threat.