The Vermont State Police is investigating an assault that occurred Wednesday morning, Nov. 20, at Grace Cottage Hospital in Townshend and is asking for the public’s assistance in locating the suspect.

Hospital officials called VSP shortly after 9:30 a.m. and reported that a patient identified as Adam Rauch, 22, of San Diego, California, had attacked a nurse and damaged property before leaving on foot. Rauch may be in crisis and is potentially dangerous, and there are concerns for his welfare.

He is described as 6 feet tall, weighing 210 pounds, with a muscular build and blond hair. He was last seen wearing blue hospital scrub pants, a blue paper top, and no socks or shoes. He left Grace Cottage Hospital in an unknown direction of travel and has no known contacts in the area.

Anyone who sees Rauch should not approach him and immediately call 911 or the Vermont State Police in Westminster at 802-722-4600.

Rauch is suspected of assault on a protected professional and unlawful mischief. The nurse was treated for facial injuries and released. As a result of the incident, the hospital and nearby schools temporarily enacted safety precautions, which they have since lifted.