Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, February 2, 1995 TAG: 9502020063
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: C-6 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: MICHAEL STOWE STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
Magistrate Glen Conrad ordered Clarence Kirtley, 69, to remain in the Roanoke City Jail until his trial.
A hospital staff member wrestled the gun away before anyone was hurt, but Assistant U.S. Attorney Don Wolthuis told Conrad that people could have easily been killed.
``This was a thumb's width away from being one of those tragedies we read about in the news,'' Wolthuis said. ``This is not in any way a light situation.''
Kirtley voluntarily left the hospital's rehabilitation treatment center in September against medical advice, VA Director John Presley said after the incident. Kirtley phoned Nov. 7 asking to be readmitted and was told no bed space was available.
Kirtley, an amputee who uses a wheelchair, came into the hospital about 11:30 a.m., officials said.
A nurse ran behind the wheelchair, held onto the gun and motioned for a medical clerk to help her. The clerk wrestled the gun away, Presley said.
Kirtley has been charged with assault with a deadly weapon, and Wolthuis said additional charges may be returned by a grand jury this month.
Kirtley has been examined by mental health experts at a federal prison in Butner, N.C.
Wolthuis and defense attorney Richard Derrico both told Conrad that Kirtley has psychiatric problems and has displayed suicidal behavior.
``Although he is not technically insane ... he clearly has some serious problems,'' Derrico said.
Conrad assured Kirtley that he would receive any medical treatment that he needs.
by CNB