SUDBURY -- An Elliot Lake man is facing a list of charges after he allegedly threw equipment and furniture in the hospital's emergency room earlier this month.

Officers from the Ontario Provincial Police East Algoma detachment were called to St. Joseph's General Hospital Elliot Lake around 11:37 a.m. Oct. 16 due to a disturbance.

"Hospital staff were dealing with a person in the emergency room (ER) who began acting out. The individual was throwing equipment and furniture around, causing considerable damage," police said in a news release Friday. "Equipment was also thrown at a staff member."

OPP Const. Phil Young told CTV News a patient was being assessed by a doctor when he suddenly became combative, causing extensive damage to the ER.

"They were obviously suffering from some sort of medical distress at the time," said Young. "Officers responded and were able to speak to the individual and get him under control."

Hospital staff had to close the department and ambulances were diverted to another facility while the mess was cleaned up.

The man was sent to a local psychiatric facility for treatment following the incident.

Now, as a result, the 34-year-old man has been charged with:

  • Assault with a weapon
  • Common nuisance – endangering life
  • Mischief under $5,000, over $5,000, and obstructing, interrupting or interfering with the lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property

The accused is scheduled to appear in court Jan. 5.

None of the allegations has been proven in court.

With files from Ian Campbell, CTV News Sudbury.