What happened at UCSF Ward 86?

A patient allegedly stabbed social worker Alberto Rangel with a kitchen knife in Ward 86, the hospital's HIV clinic.

Were there security concerns at the UCSF clinic before the attack?

Yes, several staff members had reportedly raised concerns about security in the ward prior to the fatal incident.

Home / Crime and Justice / Social Worker Stabbed to Death at UCSF HIV Clinic

Social Worker Stabbed to Death at UCSF HIV Clinic

8 Dec

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Summary

Alberto Rangel, 51, a dedicated UCSF social worker, died after being stabbed.
The suspect allegedly used a kitchen knife in the hospital's HIV clinic.
Staff had previously raised security concerns in the ward.

Social Worker Stabbed to Death at UCSF HIV Clinic

Alberto Rangel, a 51-year-old social worker at UCSF's HIV clinic, has died following a fatal stabbing incident. Rangel was attacked with a kitchen knife inside Ward 86, a clinic known for serving vulnerable patients. He was pronounced dead on Saturday, two days after the assault.

Coworkers and community members have lauded Rangel as a remarkable and compassionate professional, deeply devoted to his patients. The suspect, identified as Wilfredo Tortolero Arriechi, was apprehended at the scene by a deputy who intervened. This incident has amplified concerns about workplace safety, as staff had previously voiced worries regarding security in the clinic.

In response to the tragedy and ongoing concerns, the San Francisco Department of Public Health has pledged to enhance security measures. These include increasing the number of security officers, restricting entry points, and expediting the installation of weapons-screening systems. The department stated that safety is its highest priority.