Missouri man shot dead his girlfriend in her hospital bed with nurses nearby, cops say
A Missouri man is accused of shooting his girlfriend dead in the hospital as she lay in a bed with nurses nearby.
James F. Lawson was recently charged with second-degree murder in connection to the death of Jessica Cyrus. She was shot and killed at Centerpoint Medical Center in Independence, Missouri, on October 22.
Police responded to the hospital Thursday after Cyrus was found dead with a gunshot wound to the chest, according to KCTV.
Surveillance video showed Lawson entering the room around 1:30 a.m. and using a wheelchair as he sat next to the bed and faced the victim. Cyrus appeared to be struggling to breathe as Lawson “frantically’ messed with his pants and a dark object in his right hand, according to court records.
An overnight nurse reported that Lawson’s girlfriend was in the room and he repeatedly left and returned. The nurse said that when she checked on the victim throughout the night, she saw her on her side and Cyrus appeared to be asleep without visible blood or injuries.
Officers found Lawson at a nearby strip mall, according to court records. Lawson told them his memory was “fuzzy” due to a medical condition. But later he admitted that “the cameras say it all.”
Authorities found a holster on him and ammunition in his wheelchair. He told them they could find the gun nearby. Lawson is a convicted felon and not allowed to have a gun.
Centerpoint Medical Center told KCTV that it is cooperating with authorities.
“We are deeply saddened by a tragic incident that resulted in the death of a hospital visitor. Law enforcement responded promptly and has taken an individual into custody,” a statement read. “We are cooperating fully with authorities as they investigate. The safety and privacy of our patients, visitors, and colleagues remain our highest priority. Out of respect for the ongoing law enforcement investigation and the privacy of the individual and their family, we are unable to provide additional details at this time.”
Lawson was given a $250,000 cash bond during a court appearance.
