Authorities reported on March 13, 2025, there was no active threat at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital following alarming reports of an armed individual. Initially, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department responded swiftly to the scene after receiving calls indicating the presence of the suspect, which turned out to be unfounded.
The situation unfolded on the evening of March 12, when the hospital issued a Code Silver alert shortly after 6:16 PM, confirming the potential danger and instructing staff to initiate protective measures. "Code Silver – Active Threat: Report of Armed Assailant at PEDS ED This is not a drill: Initiate immediate protective actions," read the alert. Staff were made aware of protocols to follow should they encounter the suspect, including instructions to adhere to the RUN, HIDE, FIGHT protocol.
According to sheriff’s officials, the police established a perimeter around the hospital. Around 6:45 PM, multiple law enforcement units were on the scene, conducting thorough floor-by-floor searches of the facility, with aerial support from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) helicopter. Officers worked diligently to maintain the safety of individuals inside the hospital during this tense situation.
Police and hospital officials kept the public updated throughout the evening. At approximately 8 PM, the sheriff's office confirmed, "At this time, no shots have been heard, and no one has been injured" as boredom settled among emergency responders. Following extensive checks, officials began to clear the hospital. By around 8:10 PM, the area was declared secure. Sheriff’s officials later stated, "The area will reopen shortly. Thank you for your patience and cooperation." Normal business operations resumed without incident.
Although the practice of swatting—making false reports to evoke emergency responses—is not new, such incidents instill fear and anxiety within communities. The sheriff’s office confirmed this specific incident appeared to be connected to those swatting cases, misleading law enforcement and the hospital staff. The motive behind the report remains unclear.
Law enforcement emphasized the importance of public vigilance. With hospitals often serving vulnerable populations, the threat of armed individuals is especially alarming. Post-incident, Loma Linda University's officials took precautionary measures to remind their staff and patients, as well as the surrounding community, of the need to stay alert and report any suspicious activity to police.
Fortunately for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital and its surrounding community, the police response did not result in any injuries or damages, and no firearms were found. The hospital’s protocols seemed well-prepared to handle such emergency situations swiftly and efficiently.
Loma Linda, located within California's Inland Empire, is recognized for its high-quality medical services, especially for pediatric care. Incidents like these prompt introspection about hospital security and emergency responsiveness. This episode highlights how hospitals must balance providing immediate care with ensuring the safety of patients, family members, and staff.
Additional comments from the hospital administration confirmed the resilience of the medical facility. "Our primary focus is always the safety of our patients, families, and staff,” stated hospital officials. "We are thankful for the swift and professional response from local law enforcement who ensured the safety of everyone present during the incident."
Officials remind the public of the importance of reporting suspicious activities before they escalate, as seen with the hospital's rapid response system. The situation was alarming but handled effectively, leading to no injuries and the prompt resumption of services. This incident serves as another reminder of the ever-looming necessity for vigilance in public health facilities.
Authorities will undoubtedly conduct follow-up assessments to improve protocols and safety measures. The community is left grateful for the quick actions by the law enforcement agencies and eager to move forward after such unsettling events.