A shocking incident occurred at a suburban Memphis clinic when a patient shot and killed an orthopedic surgeon during an examination. The suspect, identified as Larry Pickens, has been taken into custody, charged with first-degree murder and aggravated assault.
The Clinic Shooting
The shooting took place at Campbell Clinic in Collierville, Tennessee. Police responded to the scene promptly and apprehended the suspect, who had been at the clinic as a patient earlier in the day. The incident appeared to be targeted, with the interaction taking place in an exam room. Fortunately, no one else was injured during the incident.
Dr. Benjamin Mauck
The victim of the shooting was Dr. Benjamin Mauck, a highly respected orthopedic surgeon specializing in elbow, hand, and wrist surgeries. He had been a part of the Campbell Clinic team since 2012. The clinic expressed their shock and sadness at the loss, asking for prayers for Dr. Mauck’s family.
Violence Against Healthcare Workers
This tragic incident highlights a concerning trend of violence against healthcare workers across the United States. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare practitioners and related technical occupations account for a significant portion of intentional, nonfatal injuries caused by another person. Shootings targeting healthcare workers have become increasingly common, with incidents like this one and the Tulsa shooting in 2020. It is crucial to address and prevent such acts of violence to ensure the safety of healthcare professionals.
This unfortunate event serves as a reminder of the risks that healthcare workers face in their line of duty. Steps must be taken to protect these individuals and create a safer environment for all.
