The Nassau University Medical Center and the East Meadow High School were locked down this morning.
Police were looking for two armed bank robbery suspects this morning. Reports are that the suspects robbed a Bank of America Branch on Merrick Road in Bellmore and led police on a chase to the hospital. At the hospital, the two suspects left the vehicle and went in separate directions. Police found one suspect almost immediately after arriving on scene. The second was caught a few hours later.
The hospital and schools are open and no longer under lockdown. No injuries reported.
First Statement from Nassau University Medical Center,
Nassau University Medical Center instituted a building lockdown at 9:30 AM.
Police officials have reason to believe that bank robbers have entered the NUMC campus.
Police officers are on site and working closely with NUMC personnel.
Situation is under control and patients and staff are all safe.
One suspect has been apprehended.
Statement from the East Meadow School District,
FRIDAY, June 20, 2008 This is an official message from the East Meadow School District. A local bank was robbed this morning. As the police are pursuing the perpetrators, our schools are in a lockdown/lockout mode in order to protect our students and staff. Our efforts are being coordinated with the Nassau County Police. All children are safe. Parents are urged not to come to our schools as this is not helpful. We will release and transport the children when appropriate. As a precaution, PM kindergarten is cancelled. Thank you.
Statement #2 from NUMC,
Update 12:45PM to follow previous statement issued at 9:30 AM:
The Dynamic Care Building tower and immediate connecting buildings are now open. Staff with ID may move around the tower. Afternoon clinics will be in operation with the exception of the outpatient clinic in J building. Access is restricted to the outer buildings on the campus.
Statement #3 from NUMC,
Police informs us that remaining suspect has been caught. Nassau University Medical Center is no longer on lock-down mode. All patients, staff and visitors are safe. We thank the Nassau County Department Police Department for their diligent efforts and cooperation. NUMC staff should also be commended for ensuring the safety of patients and visitors.
NEW PHOTOSof NUMC Lockdown & Bellmore Bank click here:
http://wantaghnews.wordpress.com/2008/06/20/photos-nassau-university-medical-center-lockdown/
