BEDFORD – A local man is facing multiple criminal charges, including a level 6 felony, following a violent disturbance at the IU Health Bedford Hospital Emergency Department late Saturday night.
The incident began at approximately 10:06 p.m. on Saturday, December 27, 2025, when hospital staff received a distressing call from a male subject who expressed a desire to be shot. Officer Josh Babcock of the IU Health Department of Public Safety spoke with the individual, identified as Herbert Lee Fry, 58, of Bedford.
During the call, Fry reportedly stated he no longer wanted to live and requested that someone come to his residence to end his life. Officer Babcock obtained Fry’s address and immediately coordinated with Bedford Dispatch to provide the information.
Later that evening, Fry was brought to the Emergency Department under an Emergency Detention Order (E.D.O.). According to the probable cause affidavit, Fry became “very belligerent,” refusing to follow directions from medical staff and repeatedly shouting profanities.
The situation escalated when Fry refused to surrender personal items, including a lighter and a set of keys, which are prohibited under an E.D.O. for safety reasons. When staff attempted to remove the items, Fry allegedly became violent.
Court documents describe a chaotic scene in which Fry attempted to kick a hospital technician and a police officer. During the struggle, Fry reportedly attempted to bite Officer Babcock’s right bicep. Fry allegedly then spat on the officer, striking him on the right side of his face. Officer Babcock was forced to use a pressure point technique behind Fry’s ear to maintain control and prevent further spitting.
Multiple registered nurses assisted in applying soft Velcro restraints to Fry’s arms and legs, including a restraint over a walking boot Fry was wearing at the time. After being administered physician-ordered medication, Fry eventually calmed down and remained restrained for the safety of himself and the hospital staff.
Fry was discharged from the Emergency Department at approximately 6:30 a.m. the following morning and now faces the following charges in Lawrence County: battery against a public safety official, resisting law enforcement, and disorderly conduct.
All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This article is based on the information provided in the probable cause affidavit and does not represent a final determination of guilt or innocence.
