Three health-care workers were injured, including two who were stabbed, during a violent incident at the Halifax Emergency Room on Wednesday, January 30, 2025. The attack, which occurred around 1 p.m. at the Halifax Regional Hospital, the region's largest, prompted immediate police involvement and led to the arrest of the suspected assailant.
The patient, identified as 32-year-old Nicholas Robert Coulombe of Halifax, has been charged with attempted murder, along with multiple counts of aggravated assault. During the attack, sources indicated the weapon used was a knife.
According to reports from the scene, the situation escalated quickly, with Halifax Regional Police responding to the emergency department following reports of a weapons complaint. Health officials confirmed during the incident briefing, the patient had been taken safely under custody and the "threat has been contained," as stated by Nova Scotia Health Minister Michelle Thompson.
Reactions to the incident from hospital officials underscored the distressing nature of the attack. Nova Scotia Health CEO Karen Oldfield issued a statement recognizing the trauma experienced by the staff. "This incident has left many shaken. We commend our employees for their quick response during such a terrifying situation," she noted.
Union leaders are calling for increased security measures within the emergency department, reflecting concerns voiced by health workers for years. Sandra Mullen, president of the Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union, stated, "Without safe workplaces, there’s little hope of fixing the province’s struggling health-care system". She confirmed two of the injured were union members, with one requiring inpatient care due to their more serious injuries.
Following the attack, the emergency department operated under limited capacity for several hours, only accepting patients with life-threatening emergencies. The usual operations resumed later, around 6 p.m. on the same day.
Health Minister Thompson praised the rapid response of the emergency staff, saying, "I can't even begin to comprehend the chaotic situation they faced. Their prompt actions made all the difference during this crisis and showed tremendous solidarity and courage as they cared for their injured colleagues. " The details of what transpired inside the emergency room are still under investigation, and officials are working to determine the rationale for the attack.
The public prosecution service reported Coulombe was scheduled for court appearances to face the charges brought against him. The attack has reignited discussions about hospital safety and the measures necessary to protect healthcare workers on the front lines.
This harrowing event is part of a growing trend of violence against healthcare professionals, especially within emergency services. Leaders within the healthcare community have long been advocating for enhanced security protocols to safeguard staff and patients alike.
While the investigation continues, the healthcare community is coming together to not only heal but also reflect on necessary changes to prevent such violent outbursts from happening again. Stakeholders are calling for immediate action from both the government and healthcare authorities to prioritize safety and security for those who dedicate their lives to caring for others.
Looking forward, this incident serves as a grim reminder of challenges faced by healthcare workers and emphasizes the need for systemic change to protect those who serve on the frontline of crisis.