Dr. Barrie Miller, the state forensic examiner in North Dakota, was fired earlier this month in a concerning incident that led to police being called to her office in Bismarck. Reports indicated that Miller was about to be fired and was allegedly making homicidal comments. A state human resources representative shared that Miller had made past comments about murder/suicide and running over employees, which ultimately led to her termination the following day. Concerned about Miller’s behavior, the representative requested a welfare check on Miller and her son.
Officers from the North Dakota Highway Patrol and Bismarck police responded to Miller’s office, where she seemed calm but confused about the situation. She was then informed by the human resources representative and a state health official that she was being fired. Miller reportedly handled the news well but still seemed confused. She and her son left the office without any further incident. The police did not find any evidence of a threat or actual violence made by Miller towards her colleagues at the Medical Examiner’s office.
Although Miller was not arrested, there were concerns about her mental health and safety. It was noted that she did not exhibit any violent behavior during the incident. Patrol Lt. Daniel Haugen stated that the case was not sent to the Burleigh County state’s attorney for review. Police reports indicated that Miller was cooperative and compliant during the termination process. Despite the concerning nature of the situation, it was ultimately handled without any incidents of violence.
Following Miller’s termination, former state forensic examiner Dr. William Massello stepped in to handle interim duties while a search process for a replacement is underway. Miller did not respond to attempts to contact her through phone messages. The details surrounding her termination and the events leading up to it were not disclosed in further detail. The transition in leadership at the Medical Examiner’s office was carried out smoothly following the incident involving Miller.
The episode involving Miller’s termination raised concerns about the mental well-being of employees in the Medical Examiner’s office. The reports of past comments made by Miller about committing violence added to the tense situation. Despite the alarming nature of the incident, Miller cooperated during the termination process and left the office without any confrontations. However, the presence of law enforcement at her office highlighted the seriousness of the situation and the need for proper procedures to be followed in such cases.
It was noted by the state trooper’s report that there were no claims of actual threats or violence made by Miller towards her colleagues. The focus was on ensuring Miller’s well-being and safety, prompting the welfare check by the state human resources representative. The decision to terminate her employment was made based on concerns about her behavior and comments, leading to the involvement of law enforcement during the process. The handling of the situation by the authorities and the termination of Miller’s employment marked a significant event in the operation of the Medical Examiner’s office in North Dakota.
The incident involving Miller’s termination shed light on the importance of addressing mental health concerns in the workplace and taking appropriate actions to ensure the safety of employees. The swift response by law enforcement and state officials to address the situation demonstrated a commitment to prioritizing the well-being of all individuals involved. Moving forward, the search for a replacement for the state forensic examiner position will be closely monitored to ensure a smooth transition in leadership. The circumstances surrounding Miller’s termination served as a reminder of the need for proper protocols and support systems in place to address similar situations in the future.
