Hospital Riot in Texarkana: What Happened During the Unruly Patient Takeover?

Incident Overview

The hospital riot in Texarkana erupted when a group of juvenile patients took control of a designated area in the Riverview Behavioral Hospital on October 13, 2023. The Texarkana Arkansas Police Department received a 911 call reporting disruptions by unruly patients, leading to concerns about a possible escape attempt.

Police Response

Upon arrival, officers discovered that several hospital staff members were confined within a nurses' station surrounded by the disruptive patients. A comprehensive response was activated, involving riot gear and specialized equipment to manage the situation.

Safe Evacuation

• Coordination with local law enforcement agencies was crucial.
• The officials ensured that all staff members were evacuated safely.
• No serious injuries were reported among patients or hospital personnel.

Arrests Made

Following the incident, three juvenile males, aged 15 and 17, were taken into custody. They now face charges associated with inciting a riot. Authorities have transferred them to a juvenile detention facility.

Collaborative Efforts

The Texarkana Arkansas Police Department expressed gratitude to the various agencies, including the Arkansas State Police and other local departments, for their immediate assistance during this tumultuous event.