By Ellen Ward, County Reporter

Bellweather County officials are investigating what authorities have described as a “serious disturbance” at Bellweather Memorial Hospital following reports of violence inside the emergency department Friday evening.

Sheriff Daniel Mercer confirmed that deputies were called to the hospital shortly after 6:30 p.m., but declined to provide details regarding the number of people injured. Witnesses reported seeing several ambulances outside the eastern entrance and at least two sheriff’s vehicles blocking access to the lower parking lot.

Hospital staff contacted by the County Record described the situation as confused and rapidly changing. One employee, who asked not to be named, said several patients suffering from high fevers became violent shortly after admission.

“They were sick when they came in, but this was something else,” the employee said. “They weren’t responding to us. Some of them didn’t seem to understand where they were.”

The hospital has asked residents to avoid the emergency department until further notice. Patients requiring immediate care are being directed to clinics outside Bellweather, although officials have not confirmed which facilities remain open.

Reports of a possible chemical spill circulated throughout the evening, but County Administrator Harold Vane said there is currently no evidence of hazardous material exposure.

“We are dealing with a medical emergency,” Vane said. “There is no reason for the public to panic.”

Several residents living near the hospital reported hearing what sounded like gunshots shortly after 7 p.m. Mercer would neither confirm nor deny that deputies discharged their weapons inside the building.

A section of Main Street remains closed between the hospital entrance and the county fire station. Residents are being asked to stay clear of emergency vehicles and keep telephone lines open.

The County Record will provide further information as it becomes available.