On July 22, 2023, a tragic shooting at Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center in Portland, Oregon, underscored the pressing need for stronger security protocols in hospitals and healthcare facilities. The incident resulted in the death of 44-year-old security guard Bobby Smallwood, a dedicated professional who lost his life while protecting staff and patients.

The shooter, 33-year-old PoniaX Kane Calles, had displayed aggressive behavior in the days leading up to the attack. Despite multiple warnings and threats, he was allowed to remain in the facility while his partner was admitted to give birth. His erratic behavior, attempts to break into secured areas, and hidden firearms in a patient’s room raised serious concerns, yet hospital management failed to act decisively.

Workplace Violence in Healthcare: A Growing Concern

Hospitals are often perceived as safe spaces dedicated to healing. However, statistics paint a different picture:

• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare workers accounted for 73% of all nonfatal workplace violence injuries in 2018.
• Reports show that violent incidents in hospitals have been rising, particularly in emergency rooms and birthing centers, where emotionally charged situations can escalate quickly.

Security professionals, nurses, and doctors are on the frontlines, encountering unpredictable individuals with mental health issues, domestic disputes, and criminal intent. The tragedy in Portland serves as a stark reminder that security lapses can have fatal consequences.

The Legal Battle: Holding Institutions Accountable

Smallwood’s family has filed a $35 million wrongful death lawsuit against Legacy Health, alleging that the hospital failed to implement adequate security measures. Their claims include:

• Insufficient security presence and limited metal detectors, leaving critical areas exposed.
• A culture of discouraging staff from reporting violent threats, despite clear warning signs.
• Failure to remove Calles, despite his attempts to break into restricted areas and aggressive interactions with staff.
• A lack of armed security personnel to intervene in life-threatening situations.

While the lawsuit is ongoing, it has reignited discussions around security training, risk assessments, and proactive violence prevention in medical facilities.

How Private Investigators and Security Experts Can Help

This tragic event raises important questions: How can hospitals protect their staff and patients from similar incidents? How can security professionals assist in detecting threats before they escalate into violence?

Security Firms & Risk Assessments

Private investigators and security consultants play a critical role in assessing vulnerabilities within hospitals, clinics, and high-risk healthcare settings. They specialize in:

• Conducting threat assessments to identify individuals with violent tendencies.
• Providing training for hospital staff on recognizing warning signs and de-escalation tactics.
• Implementing advanced security technologies, such as biometric access, surveillance, and real-time alert systems.

Background Checks & Investigations

Healthcare institutions can benefit from thorough screenings of patients, visitors, and employees to reduce risks. Private investigators can support hospitals by:

• Uncovering previous criminal history or patterns of violent behavior.
• Monitoring social media and online threats that could indicate planned violence.
• Assisting legal teams in wrongful death cases, gathering evidence to ensure justice for victims.

Moving Forward: Strengthening Hospital Security

As healthcare-related violence continues to rise, the duty to protect medical personnel and patients falls on security professionals, law enforcement agencies, and investigative experts. The incident at Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center serves as a wake-up call: hospitals must take proactive security measures to prevent future tragedies.

For security firms, investigators, and risk management specialists, this case highlights the urgent need for stronger surveillance, armed security training, and crisis intervention strategies.

As professionals in the security and investigative field, it is our responsibility to advocate for better policies, enhanced safety protocols, and comprehensive risk evaluations to ensure that every hospital remains a safe space for healing—not a battleground for violence.