SUFFOLK police and Ipswich Hospital are today hunting for a patient who walked out of the hospital two days ago in his pyjamas and has not been seen by staff since.
SUFFOLK police and Ipswich Hospital are today hunting for a patient who walked out of the hospital two days ago in his pyjamas and has not been seen by staff since.
A 40-year-old man, who was being cared for on one of the surgical wards, left the hospital on Monday without officially discharging himself.
He left his belongings on the ward and was spotted off the hospital's site wearing his pyjamas by a member of staff later that day.
The hospital carried out a search of its grounds and buildings and has called in police as concerns increase for the man's safety.
Jan Rowsell, hospital spokesman, said: “We have called in police as we are increasingly concerned about the well-being of the man.
“He was spotted by a member of staff off the hospital site at 8pm on Monday.
“Led by security officers, the hospital has carried out a complete search of all of the hospital buildings, grounds and outside areas and we are now working with the police very closely in attempts to make sure the patient is okay.
“We are hoping he will be found very shortly.”
Suffolk police spokesman Louise Rosher said: “We are concerned as the man discharged himself without telling anyone and left all his belongings behind.
“Police are today following up on a number of leads while we are still trying to contact his family.”
Anyone with any information should call Suffolk police on 01473 613500.
Do you know the missing man? Contact The Evening Star on 01473 324789 or email starnews@eveningstar.co.uk.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here