Hailey
On Thursday, residents of Emporia, Kansas faced a moment of fear when an active shooter alarm was triggered at Newman Regional Health.
Police and emergency responders rushed to the scene, only to later discover that the alert was caused by a malfunctioning emergency switch.
While no one was harmed, the incident highlighted the importance of emergency preparedness and how quickly such alarms can impact schools, hospitals, and the local community.
What Happened at Newman Regional Health?
The Emporia Police Department (EPD) confirmed that officers were dispatched after receiving reports of an active shooter. The alarm automatically led to lockdown alerts at both the hospital and Emporia State University (ESU), particularly near Cora Miller Hall.
After a complete search of the hospital, police announced there was no threat. The alarm had been triggered by a pull switch error, not by any suspicious activity.
Hospital’s Response
Newman Regional Health immediately followed safety protocols. Staff and patients were safely secured, and law enforcement carried out a detailed sweep of the facility.
The hospital later issued a statement assuring the public:
- No shots were fired
- No threat existed
- All staff and patients were safe
Hospital officials also praised their employees for staying calm and following training procedures. They extended thanks to both the Emporia Police Department and the hospital’s security team for their quick action.
Police and University Actions
Emporia Police Chief Ed Owens confirmed that officers treated the call as a serious emergency until they had verified there was no danger.
Meanwhile, Emporia State University issued social media alerts, advising students and staff to follow the “Run. Hide. Fight.” procedure until the all-clear was given.
Emergency Preparedness Guide
To help the community stay safe, both the hospital and university reminded people of the standard safety protocol during active shooter alarms:
| Action | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Run | Leave the area quickly and safely. Do not carry belongings. Help others escape if possible. Call 911 when safe. |
| Hide | If escape isn’t possible, find a secure place. Lock doors, stay out of sight, silence phones, and remain quiet. |
| Fight | As a last resort, defend yourself using any available objects. Work together to overpower the attacker if your life is in danger. |
| When Police Arrive | Stay calm, follow instructions, keep hands visible, and avoid sudden movements. |
Community Reactions
For families and loved ones worried about patients, the hospital provided an information line at 620-343-6800. The quick response reassured the community that although this was a false alarm, the emergency system worked effectively to protect everyone.
The Emporia false alarm serves as a strong reminder that preparedness saves lives. Even though this was a case of technical error, the swift police response, hospital safety protocols, and university communication system proved that the community is ready for real emergencies.
This incident not only highlighted the value of training but also reassured residents that their safety is taken seriously.