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GPHC launches internal review after patient on suicide watch dies following fall

News

The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has confirmed the death of a 70‑year‑old male patient who fell from a second‑floor ward area on February 26, 2026, while under psychiatric observation. The hospital said it has opened an internal review to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

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According to a GPHC statement, the patient was admitted on February 8 after sustaining a self‑inflicted injury to the right side of his neck. He underwent emergency surgery, which included repair of a right‑sided pharyngeal injury and placement of a tracheostomy. During his admission, clinicians placed him on suicide watch and provided ongoing psychiatric monitoring and support.

At approximately 12:41 hrs on February 26, the patient reportedly jumped from the second‑floor ward area. Medical staff responded immediately and transported him to the Accident and Emergency Department, where advanced resuscitative measures were initiated. The hospital said he suffered severe traumatic injuries and that aggressive interventions — including ventilatory support, blood product transfusion and vasopressor therapy — were applied. He went into cardiac arrest and was pronounced dead at 14:10 hrs.

GPHC expressed concern over a recent increase in suicide attempts being treated at the facility, noting that some of those cases involve vulnerable populations. The corporation said its clinical teams are reinforcing safety measures, providing close monitoring, and coordinating with national mental health services and other partners to ensure timely interventions and support for patients in mental health crisis.

The hospital extended condolences to the deceased man’s family and said the internal review aims to “fully examine the circumstances” of the incident. GPHC reiterated its commitment to patient safety, strengthening monitoring systems and ensuring appropriate supervision and care for patients requiring mental health support.

The corporation also urged members of the public experiencing emotional distress to seek help from qualified healthcare professionals and available support services.

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