Nurse shot, killed during attempted robbery in hospital parking lot, authorities say

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (WBRC/Gray News) - An Alabama nurse has been shot and killed during an attempted robbery at an area hospital.

According to the Tuscaloosa Sheriff’s Office, the shooting happened Tuesday afternoon in the south parking lot of DCH Regional Medical Center.

Captain Jack Kennedy, with the violent crimes unit, identified the suspect involved in the shooting as 41-year-old Mathew James Taylor.

Kennedy said Taylor had been dropped off at DCH earlier in the day on his own request for help. However, he never entered the hospital or the emergency room; instead, he loitered on campus for several hours.

While on campus, Taylor reportedly tried to rob a woman who was already inside her car by waving a handgun and telling her to get out of her car. Police said the woman was able to drive away.

Shortly after, a nurse at DCH, identified as 27-year-old Ada Doss, was walking to her car during shift change when police said she was approached by Taylor, who once again was flashing a handgun.

Authorities said Taylor tried to take Doss’ purse and during that interaction, he shot her. According to authorities, Doss died at the scene. Taylor then went through her purse while also trying to take her car.

Tuscaloosa police responded, finding Taylor still armed and only feet away from where he had shot Doss. Authorities said Taylor showed signs of mental illness and he was taken into custody.

The 41-year-old, who has a reported limited criminal history, is facing charges that include capital murder. Police said there is no connection between Taylor and Doss.

“We are all grieving today. Ada Doss was a member of our DCH family,” the hospital shared in a statement. “This tragic crime was the result of a mental health crisis that could have taken place anywhere, but regretfully, it took place in our parking lot.”

Hospital officials noted that Taylor had left the hospital campus for about 90 minutes before returning when the shooting occurred.

“An unhealthy man did a horrific thing, and I know we all have fear and anxiety right now. We have heightened security measures to ensure all of our employees feel safe,” the hospital statement continued.

Tuscaloosa police said the shooting remains under investigation.