WTVR
August 24, 2015
A family is mourning the death of their father, who they said died as a result of injuries sustained when he was tackled by a security guard at an ambulatory care pharmacy.
On Friday afternoon, 64-year-old Phillip Whitaker was waiting on his prescriptions at the VCU Medical ambulatory pharmacy, according to the family. They said when Whitaker’s name was called he walked up to the counter, and was then tackled by a contract security guard working for VCU Medical Center. The family said this is the second time he was called back up, because he needed to correct an issue with his prescription.
VCU Officers discovered Whitaker unconscious on the floor with a serious head injury, according to Richmond Police, who have taken over the case at the request of Virginia Commonwealth University.
He was immediately knocked unconscious and transported to the emergency room, according to the family. He underwent surgery Saturday for the bleeding in his brain and was on life support.
They said Whitaker died while still on life support.
Richmond Police have asked for anyone who was inside the VCU ambulatory pharmacy Friday afternoon to come forward.
RPD Detectives have interviewed the guard and released him temporarily while they consult with the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office regarding charges, which are expected.
They have reviewed a surveillance video of the incident and have interviewed several eyewitnesses. They would also like to interview additional people who were present at the time and may have witnessed the assault.