Trinity Health initiates lockdown | News, Sports, Jobs

Trinity Health initiated a full facility lockdown Tuesday morning after Minot Police Department notified the medical center of a credible threat to the facilities and/or people within them. The lockdown was lifted several hours later.

Police were made aware of a male subject who posted a threatening message online that was directed at Trinity Hospital, according to police.

Trinity issued a statement that on the advice of law enforcement officials, it initiated the lockdown to limit movement and screen those entering the buildings. By late afternoon, following an investigation, law enforcement deemed the threat not credible.

“As evidenced today, the safety of our patients and staff is our top priority,” Trinity officials said in a statement upon lifting the lockdown. “When we recognize or are notified of a potential red flag, such as a threatening social media conversation or public statement that implies harm, we must act to protect those in our care, especially in light of recent events across this country.

“We thank our staff and the community for their patience and understanding during today’s event and ask everyone to remain vigilant against those who may threaten the peace and dignity of our community,” the statement added.

During the lockdown, all visitors into Trinity Hospital or St. Joseph’s had to be screened at designated access doors.