Warren, Michigan — Three nurses taking a break outside a Michigan hospital found themselves at the center of a frightening confrontation when a man allegedly approached them, pointed a gun in their direction, and threatened to shoot them, according to police.
The incident occurred outside Henry Ford Hospital in Warren during the early morning hours of June 3 and has resulted in multiple felony charges against a 31-year-old suspect.
Authorities say the nurses were unharmed, but the encounter left them fearing for their safety as they tried to understand what was unfolding.
Nurses Were Taking a Break When Situation Escalated
According to investigators, the incident happened shortly after 1 a.m. near the hospital’s emergency room ambulance bay.
Police said three nurses were sitting outside during a break when they noticed a man later identified as Walter Dwhite Smith pacing nearby while speaking on a cellphone.
Witnesses told officers the man appeared increasingly agitated as his conversation continued.
According to police reports, Smith was allegedly arguing with someone on the phone while walking around the hospital grounds.
The nurses later told investigators that his behavior became more concerning as the call escalated.
Suspect Allegedly Threatened Nurses During Phone Argument
Authorities say Smith eventually approached the area where the nurses were sitting. While continuing the phone conversation, he allegedly referenced the nurses during the argument.
According to police, witnesses reported hearing Smith yell:
“[Y]ou think I’m f—ing playing? I got three nurses here I can shoot.”
Investigators allege that Smith then began counting down from six before producing a black handgun.
The nurses told police that the weapon was pointed in their direction and that Smith issued a direct threat. According to court records, he allegedly warned them:
“If you take another step, I will shoot you.”
Moments later, police said Smith received another phone call and walked away from the area. After he left, one of the nurses contacted emergency services.
Arrest Made Later the Same Day
Officers from the Warren Police Department launched an investigation and located Smith later that day.
He was taken into custody without further incident.
According to reports, Smith had reportedly visited the Detroit Federal Probation Office one day earlier for a random drug and alcohol screening.
Authorities said he allegedly admitted to consuming alcohol days before, which reportedly violated conditions of his probation related to a previous case.
However, officials indicated he was released after that encounter. The investigation into the hospital incident continued throughout the day before police made the arrest.
Multiple Charges Filed
Prosecutors have filed numerous charges against Smith in connection with the alleged incident.
The charges include:
- Two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon
- Carrying a concealed weapon
- Possession of a weapon by a prohibited person
- Brandishing a firearm in public
- Driving without a valid license
- Three counts of felony firearm
Authorities said Smith remains in custody at the Macomb County Jail.
Court records indicate he is being held on a $500,000 bond and is also subject to a federal detainer involving the U.S. Marshals Service.
Healthcare Workers Face Growing Safety Concerns
The incident has renewed conversations about safety for healthcare workers, particularly those working overnight shifts.
Hospital employees often spend long hours caring for patients and responding to emergencies, making workplace security an ongoing concern for many healthcare facilities.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported during this incident, but investigators say the allegations underscore the importance of maintaining secure environments around hospitals and medical centers.
Smith is scheduled to appear in court again on June 25 as the case moves through the legal system.
What are your thoughts on safety measures for healthcare workers? Should hospitals increase security around employee break areas and parking lots? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.