DCH strengthens security after nurse killed in parking lot shooting

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (WBRC) - DCH Regional Medical Center is adding uniformed off-duty police officers and increasing security presence after a nurse was shot and killed during an attempted robbery on the hospital’s campus earlier this week.

The hospital is partnering with the Tuscaloosa, Northport and Fayette police departments for proactive campus patrols and expanding training for security personnel, according to a message sent to employees Thursday night by Katrina Keefer, president and CEO.

Security personnel working outside will wear yellow safety vests for easier visibility, and the hospital has added signage and lighting to security vehicles. The hospital is also making security escorts available to employees walking to their cars and adding hours for the shuttle service.

DCH is evaluating options to provide secured employee-designated parking areas and reviewing security practices across all campuses, with a focus on dispatch communication and response.

“We remain heartbroken and continue to keep Ada’s family, friends, and coworkers in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time,” Keefer said in the message. “We are committed to supporting one another as we move through this together.”

Security escorts are available for anyone uncomfortable walking to their vehicle. At the Regional Campus, security can be reached internally at 7320 or externally at 205-759-7320.

A survey will be distributed to employees to gather additional feedback and ideas on security measures.

Shooting details

A nurse at DCH Regional Medical Center, identified as 27-year-old Ada Doss, was shot and killed May 12 around 4 p.m. in the south parking lot of the hospital, Tuscaloosa Police said.

Tuscaloosa Sheriff’s Office’s Violent Crimes Unit said Doss was walking to her car during shift change when she was approached by 41-year-old Matthew James Taylor, who was brandishing a handgun.

Authorities said Taylor tried to take Doss’ purse and during that interaction, Taylor shot Doss once and she died. According to authorities, Taylor then went through Doss’ purse, took her keys and tried to take her car.

Tuscaloosa Police responded to the scene and found Taylor still armed and only feet away from the scene. Authorities said based on conversations with him, Taylor showed signs of mental illness.

Taylor has been charged with capital murder since the crime occurred during a robbery. He was committed to the county jail with no bond.

Captain Jack Kennedy with the Violent Crimes Unit said Taylor had been dropped off at DCH earlier in the day on his own request for help. However, Taylor never entered the hospital or the emergency room, but instead loitered on and about the DCH campus for several hours, Kennedy said.

Officials with DCH said that Taylor left the hospital campus for 90 minutes. When he returned, DCH officials said he was only on the property for less than five minutes before the shooting.

While on campus, Taylor reportedly tried to rob a woman who was already inside her car by brandishing a handgun and telling her to get out of her car. Police said the woman was able to drive away.

Authorities said Taylor has very limited criminal history and they are working to learn how or why Taylor had a handgun.

Police said there is no connection between Doss and Taylor.

Doss’s death was the first criminal homicide of the year, according to Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox.

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