Patient who jumped to death at GPHC was on suicide watch; hospital concerned, launches probe

See full statement from the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation:

The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation regrets to inform the public of the untimely death of a 70-year-old male patient who was receiving treatment at the institution.

The patient was admitted on February 8, 2026, following an incident in which he sustained a self-inflicted injury to the right side of his neck. He underwent emergency surgical intervention, including repair of a right-sided pharyngeal injury and placement of a tracheostomy. During his hospitalization, he remained under close medical management and was placed on suicide watch with ongoing psychiatric monitoring and support.

On February 26, 2026, at approximately 12:41 hrs, the patient reportedly jumped from a second-floor ward area. He was immediately attended to by medical staff and transported to the Accident and Emergency Department, where advanced resuscitative measures were initiated. Clinical assessment revealed severe traumatic injuries, and despite aggressive intervention, including ventilatory support, administration of blood products, and vasopressor therapy, the patient’s condition deteriorated. He subsequently went into cardiac arrest and was pronounced dead at 14:10 hrs.

The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation is also concerned by a recent upsurge in suicide attempt cases being managed at the hospital, including among vulnerable populations. Our clinical teams are actively providing care, close monitoring, and enhanced safety measures for patients experiencing mental health distress, while working closely with national mental health services and relevant partners to ensure timely intervention and support.

GPHC extends sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased during this difficult time.

An internal review has been initiated to fully examine the circumstances surrounding this incident. The hospital remains committed to maintaining patient safety, strengthening monitoring systems, and ensuring that all patients, particularly those requiring mental health support, receive appropriate supervision and care.

The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation also wishes to remind the public of the importance of seeking mental health support and encourages persons experiencing emotional distress to reach out to qualified healthcare professionals or available support services.