Shooting at Ascension St. Thomas Midtown Hospital, Suspect Arrested

On Saturday evening a man was taken into custody by Nashville police after he allegedly opened fire inside Ascension St. Thomas Midtown Hospital. According to reports by WKRN.com, a man was armed with a gun and found inside the hospital’s stairwell after discharging his weapon. There were no reported injuries. 

Officials say that Nicholas Perre Zaayenga, 33, was armed and taken into custody. New19 reports that Police found multiple magazines and bullet casings as well as a pistol matching the same caliber.

According to reports, two nurses heard gunshots and there were bullet holes and damage in the stairwell. It is unclear at this time if there was an intended target or unit. Zaayenga was reported to have entered the hospital through a back door. 

Zaayenga has been charged with reckless endangerment, vandalism, possession of a weapon, and criminal trespassing.  A lawyer for Zaayenga has not been identified. This remains an active investigation and police have not identified a motive at this time.

Ascension Saint Thomas Midtown released this statement:

“The safety of our associates, providers, patients and visitors is always our highest priority. We are so proud of the prompt response by our associates and the Metro Nashville Police Department. We are most thankful for the safety of all involved. Our campus leaders have visited hospital departments to answer associates’ questions, concerns and provide support. We are fully cooperating with Metro Nashville Police Department in their investigation.”

 

Nurse.org will continue to cover this unfolding story and update as more information becomes available.