SALEM, OREGON — According to the Salem Police Department, officers responded immediately after receiving a report about a possible firearm in a vehicle parked in the garage of Salem Hospital. The incident, which unfolded late Tuesday afternoon, prompted a swift and cautious response from both law enforcement and hospital security personnel.
Authorities stated that the initial report came from a hospital visitor who claimed to have seen what appeared to be a handgun inside a parked vehicle. Given the sensitive environment and the high number of patients and staff on the premises, officers treated the situation with the utmost seriousness.
Upon arrival, Salem police quickly secured the area surrounding the hospital’s parking structure. They established a safety perimeter to prevent patients, employees, and visitors from entering the garage while they assessed the potential threat. Nearby entrances to the hospital were also temporarily restricted as a precautionary measure.
Law enforcement officials, equipped with protective gear, approached the vehicle carefully. According to police, the driver was still inside the vehicle when officers made contact. The individual was ordered to exit the car and was detained without incident. Officers then began a thorough search of the vehicle to determine whether a firearm was indeed present.
After a detailed inspection, police confirmed that a weapon was found inside the car. However, officials clarified that there was no indication the firearm had been used or displayed in a threatening manner. At no point during the incident were any shots fired, and no injuries were reported.
Authorities emphasized that the hospital’s swift action in notifying law enforcement likely prevented any potential danger. The building’s emergency protocols were activated immediately, ensuring that staff and patients remained safe throughout the response. Within a short time, the situation was brought under control, and normal hospital operations resumed.
Investigators interviewed the individual involved at the scene. Police stated that the person provided an explanation for possessing the firearm, which is currently under review. The weapon was confiscated as evidence while authorities worked to determine whether any laws had been violated.
Hospital representatives later issued a statement thanking both police officers and staff for their quick response and professionalism. They reassured the public that patient care was not disrupted and that all safety procedures were followed precisely as designed.
Community members who witnessed the heavy police presence in the area expressed both concern and gratitude for the prompt action. Many praised law enforcement for acting decisively to ensure that a potential threat did not escalate into a tragedy.
As of now, the investigation remains ongoing. The Salem Police Department has not released further details regarding potential charges or the motive behind the presence of the firearm. Officials reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining safety in and around the hospital, reminding residents to report any suspicious activity immediately to authorities.
