According to the department's report, the patient managed to stab three male patients with a sharp object at the hospital, including a 90-year-old patient who died allegedly due to his wounds. The other two injured patients were sutured and are reported to be in a stable condition.
The incident happened in the early hours of Wednesday.
Department spokesperson Tebogo Lekgethwane said that when the patient was admitted on 22 July, he complained of abdominal pains and, according to doctors at the hospital, showed no sign of confusion or aggression.
"Following the aggressive behaviour the doctor advised that the patient was psychotic and was then sedated and taken to Bophelong Psychiatric Hospital for further assessment and treatment."
Lekgethwane said the department regretted the incident, adding that the relatives of the deceased and injured patients were informed of what had happened and all the families have already received counselling.
"The department will provide all the necessary support needed for the bereaved family, and patients who might have witnessed or were in a way affected by the incident will continue to receive counselling," said Lekgethwane.
Health MEC, Dr Magome Masike, who is currently wrapping up his attendance at the 19th AIDS Conference in Washington, US was informed and has also sent his condolences to the family.
The matter has been reported to the police.
