A 51-year-old patient from Jackson, Mississippi died on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, after allegedly being assaulted by another patient on the same treatment floor at the Merit Health Central.
According to the Jackson Police Department, the assailant, whose identity has not been disclosed, experienced a psychiatric episode when he attacked Wendy Gilbreath. The man was promptly arrested at the scene and has been charged with murder.
Following the assault, the victim was swiftly transported to the University of Mississippi Medical Center for medical attention. She died from her injuries the following day.
Gilbreath, a Houston native and graduate of Southern Methodist University in Texas, was remembered in her obituary for her “bright personality,” “loving energy,” and her courageous battle against “challenging illnesses throughout her adult life.” Her commitment to facing these challenges head-on was noted as a source of inspiration to those around her. She is survived by her family and pets, with her loved ones directing donations to The Goodness Web Foundation in her memory.
“While fighting challenging illnesses throughout her adult life, Wendy exhibited remarkable courage and stamina as she sought solutions,” her obituary read in part. “Wendy was truly an inspiration to those who witnessed her daily bravery. Wendy never gave up.”
In response to this incident, Merit Health Network emphasized the importance of patient and staff safety. Their statement expressed their appreciation for the rapid response of their team and the Jackson Police Department while emphasizing that ongoing investigations and patient privacy policies limit the information they can release.
The details provided by police reveal that both the suspect and Gilbreath were patients on the hospital’s sixth floor and did not know each other before the attack. The Hinds County coroner confirmed that the assault led to fatal injuries for the victim.
Gilbreath’s life story, marked by her determination and vibrant spirit, emphasizes the vulnerability in healthcare environments, where people seek healing and support.
