Suicide, Shooting Threat At Menifee Hospital Determined To Be Unfounded: Police

MENIFEE, CA — A morning call to a local hospital from an allegedly armed, suicidal person in the medical facility's parking lot apparently proved false.

"Responding officers immediately worked to thoroughly search the parking lot and hospital and determined there was no active threat or suicidal subject located on the property," police announced Tuesday afternoon.

The initial call came in around 6:35 a.m. The caller told Menifee Global Hospital staff that he was in their parking lot and was going to take his own life. He also claimed he would shoot anyone who attempted to approach his vehicle, according to a report from the Menifee Police Department.

The call abruptly ended with what sounded like a gunshot, police reported.

The hospital was placed on immediate lockdown, though operations resumed after police determined no threat existed.

Afterward, the Menifee Police Department issued a statement, saying it "takes all threats to public safety seriously and appreciates the swift cooperation of hospital staff, school personnel, and community members during this incident."

The incident did not seriously impact nearby Hans Christensen Middle School because the situation was resolved before students arrived on campus, police said.

If you are struggling, or know someone who is, contact the National Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988. The hotline provides confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, seven days a week, across the United States.