ENID, Okla. (August 19, 2025) — A tragic late-night shooting at Integris Health Enid Hospital has left two people dead, including a veteran hospital security officer, in what authorities have described as a violent and chaotic incident that shocked the community.
The suspect has been identified as 46-year-old Dedrick Bloss, who opened fire inside the hospital late Sunday night, August 17, before being fatally shot by responding Enid Police Department officers. The second victim, a public safety officer at the hospital, has been remembered as a hero who sacrificed his life protecting patients and staff.
The Incident
According to officials, the shooting began shortly before midnight when Bloss entered the hospital and opened fire. The gunman’s motives remain under investigation, but witnesses described scenes of terror as shots rang out in a normally calm and secure setting.
Hospital security officer J.W. “Jim” Bode, 72, confronted Bloss during the attack and was fatally shot in the line of duty. His actions, hospital leaders said, likely prevented even greater bloodshed.
Police officers quickly responded to emergency calls, arriving at the hospital within minutes. When confronted by law enforcement, Bloss exchanged gunfire before being shot and killed. No patients or medical staff were reported injured during the incident.
A Fallen Hero
In a statement posted to social media on Monday, Integris Health Enid Hospital honored Bode, calling him a “dedicated and selfless protector” whose bravery in his final moments will never be forgotten.
“J.W. Bode exemplified what it means to serve and protect,” the statement read. “He was a beloved member of our hospital family and a true guardian to our patients and staff. We are devastated by this loss but deeply grateful for his courage.”
Colleagues described Bode as a steady, dependable presence at the hospital, where he had worked for years ensuring safety and security. At 72, he was still committed to serving, and his colleagues said he never hesitated to put others before himself.
Suspect Identified
Authorities confirmed the shooter as Dedrick Bloss, 46, but have not released further details about his connection to the hospital or possible motive. Enid Police Chief Brian O’Rourke said investigators are interviewing witnesses, reviewing surveillance footage, and working to establish what led Bloss to open fire.
“We know the community has many questions,” O’Rourke said at a press conference Monday. “Our officers acted swiftly to stop the threat, and while this tragedy resulted in the loss of two lives, many others were saved because of the brave actions of Officer Bode and our responding officers.”
Community in Mourning
The incident has shaken Enid, a community of just under 50,000 people where violent shootings are rare. Outside the hospital, residents have left flowers and messages of condolence for Bode’s family and coworkers.
Mayor George Pankonin expressed his condolences, saying: “This is a dark day for our city. We lost a man of integrity and courage who gave his life in the service of others. We also recognize the trauma this has caused for hospital staff and the families affected.”
Investigation and Next Steps
The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) has been called in to assist with the case, as is standard procedure in officer-involved shootings. Investigators are working to determine whether Bloss acted alone, whether he had personal ties to the hospital, and whether warning signs were missed.
Meanwhile, Integris Health officials said counseling and support services are being made available to employees and patients traumatized by the event. Security protocols at the hospital are also under review to prevent future tragedies.
As the Enid community grieves, tributes continue to pour in for J.W. Bode—a man remembered not only as a security officer, but as a husband, father, friend, and neighbor whose final act was one of profound courage.