A social worker at San Francisco General Hospital is in critical condition after being stabbed repeatedly by a patient Thursday afternoon, according to the San Francisco Sheriff’s Department.
A 35-year-old patient who was at the medical center for an appointment had reportedly threatened a doctor before stabbing the 31-year-old social worker multiple times in the neck and shoulder, sheriff’s officials said.
He was arrested at the scene and taken into custody. Deputies recovered a five-inch kitchen knife they believe he used in the attack.
The Sheriff’s Department said additional security personnel were called around 1:30 p.m. to the sixth floor of San Francisco General Hospital after a doctor received threats from a patient in Ward 86, an HIV resource and treatment center.
Officials said they were providing security at the door when they heard a disturbance in the hallway. A deputy found the suspect attacking the social worker, intervened and restrained the man.
Medical staff on site performed CPR and lifesaving care to the social worker before they were taken to an operating room. As of Thursday evening, the victim was still receiving care.
Their condition as of Friday is unknown. UCSF, which is a partner at Ward 86 and San Francisco General, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
“It’s deeply upsetting to have a frontline worker injured while doing their job serving our city,” Mayor Daniel Lurie said in a statement. “Our social workers spend every day helping struggling San Franciscans — they should never have to fear for their safety while doing that work.
“We will stay vigilant and ensure our hospitals are safe for everyone,” he continued.
This is a developing story, and it will be updated.
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