Support for LAist comes from
We Explain L.A.
Stay Connected

Share This

This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.

This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.

News

Mental Hospital Patients Leave Facility in Echo Park

echo_park_dusk.jpg
Photo by Uncle Rhea via the LAist Featured Photos pool on Flickr
Support your source for local news!
Today, put a dollar value on the trustworthy reporting you rely on all year long. The local news you read here every day is crafted for you, but right now, we need your help to keep it going. In these uncertain times, your support is even more important. We can't hold those in power accountable and uplift voices from the community without your partnership. Thank you.

Two men went missing from an Echo Park mental hospital today, and police are hoping for the public's help in finding them.

NBC Los Angeles reports that James Sheppard and Christopher Bednar were both reported to be gone from the Gateways Hospital and Mental Health Center at around 9:20 p.m. yesterday. Since they're free to leave, they aren't considered to have escaped, per say. But since both also need medication and are believed to not be on it, police have been advised to apprehend and transport the men back to Gateways if they're found.

One more thing: KTLA describes Bednar as an "accused murderer," saying:

Christopher Bednar, may have a criminal record and may have been arrested on charges of murder and assault with a deadly weapon.
Support for LAist comes from

Sheppard is being described as white, about 185 pounds and six feet tall, with brown hair and brown eyes. He's 50 years old.

Bednar is described as also white, weighing about 280 pounds and just under six feet tall. Bednar is 45 and has brown hair and blue eyes.

Most Read