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"
A Horrible Day "
March 22 2002 - South Bend, Indiana, United States
Bill Lockey, a shipping
clerk and 26 year employee at Bertrand Products an aviation parts
manufacturing company, had apparently gone to work with a grocery bag
under his arm and evil in his heart. At about 8:20 a.m. he pulled out a
gun that had apparently been hidden in the bag and began firing. Before it
was over, 5 people were killed, including Lockey, who took his own life
after leading the police on a wild car chase. Two further employees,
shooting victims, were hospitalized. A .22 caliber rifle and shotgun,
traced to Lockey, were later seized.
Lockey was described as
quiet, keeping to himself, "a lone wolf." Initial reports
indicate possible problems with management over performance issues.
"This was a tragedy," an employee said. "And it’s a
warning to everyone else that may have employees like this: that if you
see signs, to get those people help."
Lockey was the perpetrator
of a gun standoff and attack plans in 1968. At age 20 he was committed to
a mental institution for a period of about four years. That was 34 years
ago.
Analysis
Studies show that while not
all co-worker extreme violence can be avoided, in many cases preventive
measures will substantially help.
The employee selection
process should acquire persons that not only have the necessary skill set
but also ensure that individuals are socially and legally compliant. One
of the most accurate predictors in determining the potential for future
violence is a history violent behavior in the past. Also, domestic
partnerships that are a source of problems off site, will often find their
way into the workplace. Management has a responsibility to deal promptly
and professionally with such situations.
Discrimination, harassment
and violence prevention policies and procedures are the basis of a strong
support infrastructure, as is commitment from the top of the organization.
Management training should reinforce the need for incidents and
individuals to be handled in a consistent fashion. Identification of early
warning signs and timely response to potential violence should also be
part of this training. All employees need to understand their shared
responsibility in the prevention of harassment and violence in the
workplace.
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