(Columbus) An update was given Tuesday in a double death investigation in the town of Elba and at a Columbus Hospital. A Columbus police officer was dispatched to Prairie Ridge Health around 6:20am Monday for reports of man outside the entrance with a gun. Prior to law enforcement arrival, the man shot himself in the emergency room waiting area.
Aid was immediately attempted by medical staff but was unsuccessful. Sheriff’s deputies were asked to head to the man’s address on Oak Grove Drive in Elba and there they located a woman deceased in the home. Dodge County Sheriff Dale Schmidt says officials are only able to provide limited details at this time but did identify those involved.
“Our investigation to this point has led us to believe that David Zittel, age 85, shot his wife, Susan Zittel, both of the Town of Elba…he then went to Prairie Ridge Health, entered the lobby, and shot himself…no other individuals are believed to be involved in this incident.”
Schmidt adds that with this incident occurring inside of a hospital, they felt it was important for the public to be aware that this is an isolated incident and that the community is safe.
“We would like to community to also know that the Prairie Ridge Health responded as they should have and immediately went into lock down until mid-afternoon…they also diverted all ambulances temporarily until it was determined safe to resume operations…they resumed normal operation after the law enforcement investigation was completed on Monday.”
The case is still open and under investigation. Schmidt notes that no additional information will be released until that investigation has been completed.
Watch Tuesday’s press conference:
