A nurse at HCA Florida Palms West Hospital, Leelamma Lal, was brutally attacked by a patient identified as Stephen Scantlebury on February 18. The incident occurred while Lal was caring for Scantlebury, who was under the state’s Baker Act at the time of the attack.
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- Nurse Leelamma Lal attacked by patient
- Family seeks answers and accountability
- Hospital lacks proper security measures
- Suspect faces attempted murder charges
- Nurse's recovery and future remain uncertain
The attack on Nurse Leelamma Lal has raised significant concerns about safety protocols within healthcare facilities. According to reports, every bone in her face was broken during the assault, and she may lose vision in both eyes. Following the incident, she was airlifted to St. Mary’s Medical Center for urgent medical care.
Family members Cindy Joseph and Chris Lal expressed their shock and anger over the situation. They recounted receiving a call from their mother’s phone only to hear a man’s voice informing them of the attack. The family questions why Scantlebury was admitted to a facility that does not specialize in handling Baker Act patients and noted that there were no security cameras in the room where the incident occurred.
- Date of Attack: February 18
- Location: HCA Florida Palms West Hospital
- Suspect: Stephen Scantlebury
- Injuries: Severe facial trauma; risk of losing sight
The family’s attorney is considering filing for negligence against the hospital due to inadequate safety measures for staff. The hospital’s CEO reportedly prioritized addressing issues related to Scantlebury’s Baker Act status over concerns for Lal’s well-being during emergency calls following the assault. This has further fueled outrage among her family and supporters.
The ongoing recovery process for Nurse Lal remains uncertain as her family continues to advocate for better protections for healthcare workers facing violence on the job. They emphasize their desire for accountability from both the suspect and the hospital involved.
