NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — More than 30 vehicles were broken into at Vanderbilt University Medical Center by thieves targeting overnight hospital workers.
"We’re just simply trying to clock in, do our job, and somebody would take advantage of that, take advantage of that we were inside the hospital doing our jobs," said one Vanderbilt nurse.
The nurse, who wants to remain anonymous, is upset that his vehicle was burglarized because items were stolen. "I had my driver's side window broken out. My driver's side back window on the top of my Jeep was ripped."
On top of handling trauma patients, medical emergencies, and COVID-19 patients, this was the cherry on top for essential workers.
“We go in every day just expecting to be able to take care of people, and not have to worry that our vehicles are going to be safe or not, and unfortunately these people wanted to take advantage of that opportunity."
Vanderbilt University Medical Center issued a statement:
"Overnight, Vanderbilt University Police Department (VUPD) officers responded to a report of multiple vehicles that were burglarized in the Medical Center’s Central Parking Garage. More than 30 vehicles were found to be affected. VUPD reviewed video footage and has identified suspects in the matter. The Metro Nashville Police Department has been notified and given descriptions of the individuals. This is an ongoing investigation. VUMC is committed to employee and patient safety and always encourages everyone to lock their vehicles and not leave valuables visible."
According to a spokesperson with the Metro Nashville Police Department, about two weeks ago nearly a dozen vehicles at St. Thomas Midtown Hospital were also broken into overnight in a garage. Over the summer, between TriStar Centennial Medical Center and St. Thomas, there were roughly 20 vehicle break-ins reported to police.
A source told NewsChannel 5 some of the burglary victims at Vanderbilt reported guns missing too.
"We’re all just sort of surprised, we obviously didn’t ever expect something like this to happen."
It’s unclear if the cases are connected, and no arrests have been made. MNPD is working with Vanderbilt Police on the case.
