Nicolai Haugsted
Hospital nightmare unfolds as Grim Reaper figure appears overhead.
Patients and hospital staff in North Wales were met with an unsettling sight when a man dressed as the Grim Reaper climbed onto the roof of a hospital and looked down over the main entrance while apparently carrying a large blade.
Police and firefighters were called to Ysbyty Glan Clwyd hospital in St Asaph after reports of the figure dressed in a black hooded robe overlooking visitors and employees during the incident, which lasted around 50 minutes.
Arrest followed rooftop incident
Authorities later identified the man as 26-year-old Leon Gillespie, from Deganwy.
He was arrested and later admitted causing a nuisance or disturbance on National Health Service premises without reasonable excuse.
Court proceedings heard that Gillespie’s costume was also described as resembling a crow.
Four police vehicles and a fire engine responded before officers brought the situation under control.
Gillespie pleaded guilty before magistrates in Llandudno and received a financial penalty.
He was ordered to pay a £200 fine, along with £50 in compensation and additional prosecution costs.
No explanation was offered in court for why he climbed onto the hospital roof dressed in the costume.
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Additional theft offences
Case also included admissions to two shoplifting incidents.
Gillespie admitted stealing cat food and cat litter worth between £30 and £40 from a Pets at Home store in Llandudno in March, as well as food and drinks from a Sainsbury’s supermarket in May.
Following the incident, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board emphasized its stance on disruptive behaviour.
“The health board has previously stated it has a zero tolerance approach to abuse, aggression or nuisance within its hospital sites,” a spokesperson said according to The Independent.
North Wales Police confirmed the arrest and subsequent charge.
“A 26-year-old man has been arrested and charged following the incident on the roof of Ysbyty Glan Clwyd,” a police spokesperson said.
Authorities added that “The incident was brought under control by North Wales Police and North Wales Fire and Rescue Service.”
