Houston Methodist employee found stabbed in Texas Medical Center parking garage, police say

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Authorities are searching for a suspect after a Houston Methodist employee was stabbed and robbed Monday morning inside a Texas Medical Center parking garage, prompting a large police response and temporary security lockdowns across part of the hospital campus.

The Houston Police Department, which is leading the investigation, said the woman was found stabbed inside her vehicle around 6:47 a.m. on the fifth floor of Texas Medical Center Garage 1 at 6519 Fannin Street. Investigators said the employee had just parked and was heading into work when she was attacked.

Authorities have not released details about how seriously she was hurt, but sources told ABC13 the woman's cellphone was stolen during the robbery. Sources said authorities were attempting to track the stolen phone in hopes of locating the suspect.

Investigators released an image of the man they are searching for, describing him as a Black man with a beard who was last seen wearing a red or orange hoodie with a Houston Rockets logo, black pants, and black tennis shoes.

In a social media post on Tuesday morning, HPD released additional photos of the suspect, asking the public's help in identifying him.

Houston Police Department investigators spent much of the day collecting evidence around the victim's vehicle in the garage before it was towed late Monday afternoon.

The brazen attack rattled many workers, patients, and visitors who use the Texas Medical Center daily.

"So do they know who did it?" asked Yolanda Garcia, who parks in the area regularly. "Oh no, I hope she's alright."

Others expressed confidence that authorities will make an arrest soon. Brian and Holly Smith's son is currently undergoing treatment at the Texas Medical Center.

"I feel safe all the time being here with my family," Brian Smith said. "I have law enforcement - I will put a bet on it they would catch this guy."

"I think everyone just needs to be vigilant, always try to observe your surroundings as much as you can," Holly Smith said. "Unfortunately, there's evil in this world, and we just have to be as prepared as we can."

In a statement, Houston Methodist confirmed the employee was attacked and said part of the campus was temporarily locked down "out of an abundance of caution."

"At this time, there is no indication of an active or imminent threat to our campus," the hospital system said. "The safety and well-being of our employees, patients, and visitors remains our top priority."