RALEIGH, N.C. — A 25-year-old man is facing felony charges after authorities say he intentionally sprayed HIV-positive blood into the eyes of two hospital employees while being treated at UNC Rex Hospital earlier this year.
According to police and court documents, Kameron Lamont Gilchrist, 25, was at the Raleigh hospital on March 21, 2025, receiving treatment for a diabetic-related condition when the violent assault occurred. Investigators say Gilchrist became combative during his care and allegedly sprayed his own blood toward two healthcare workers, striking both in the eyes and causing immediate irritation and potential exposure to the virus.
Following the incident, hospital staff acted quickly to decontaminate the area and provide emergency medical attention to the two employees involved. Both workers underwent medical evaluations and post-exposure treatment, and hospital officials say they have since continued to receive follow-up care.
After a six-month investigation, authorities obtained warrants for Gilchrist’s arrest. He was taken into custody on September 11, 2025, and charged with two felony counts of assault on emergency personnel. Gilchrist was booked into the Wake County Jail, where he remains held on a $25,000 bond.
Law enforcement officials have not released details regarding the delay between the incident and the arrest, but sources familiar with the investigation say the case required extensive forensic testing and coordination with public health officials before charges could be formally filed.
UNC Rex Healthcare released a statement following Gilchrist’s arrest, expressing gratitude to its staff and to local authorities for their response and continued support.
“The safety and well-being of our team members and patients remain our highest priority,” the hospital said. “We are proud of our employees who demonstrated professionalism and courage under extremely distressing circumstances. We continue to support them as they recover from this incident.”
Under North Carolina law, knowingly and willfully attempting to expose someone to HIV is a serious felony offense, carrying substantial penalties if convicted. When the targeted individuals are healthcare workers or emergency responders performing their official duties, the charges can carry enhanced sentencing.
The case has sent shockwaves through the local healthcare community, underscoring the growing risks faced by frontline medical workers who routinely care for patients in unpredictable situations. Advocates for healthcare employees have renewed calls for additional workplace protections, training, and enforcement of safety protocols designed to prevent such attacks.
“This incident highlights the dangers medical professionals face every day,” said one Raleigh-based healthcare union representative. “No one who dedicates their life to saving others should have to fear being assaulted on the job.”
Gilchrist’s first court appearance is scheduled in Wake County District Court later this month. If convicted, he could face several years in state prison.
Authorities have not indicated whether additional charges may be filed, but the investigation remains ongoing.
The hospital has confirmed that both affected staff members are stable and receiving ongoing support. Police are urging anyone with additional information about the March 21 incident to contact the Raleigh Police Department or submit a confidential tip through Wake County Crime Stoppers.