Why 9-1-1’s Henrietta Was Not At Fault For The Death She Caused (Even Though It Haunts Me To This Day)

Many moments in the high-octane world of 9-1-1 have shocked me (which is why it’s such a good show), but few have been as heart-wrenching as the incident involving Hen’s tragic accident in the season 3 episode “Malfunction”. Portrayed by the talented Aisha Hinds, Hen has been a pillar of strength and compassion within the Los Angeles Fire Department’s Station 118. Her journey, marked by resilience and dedication, took a tragic turn that left both the character and viewers grappling with profound emotions – and for myself and many viewers, she has one of the best arcs in the show.

Throughout 9-1-1, Hen’s character has been meticulously crafted to showcase the complexities of balancing personal and professional challenges. As an openly gay African-American woman, she navigates the intricacies of her identity while excelling in a demanding profession. Her relationship with her wife, Karen, and their son, Denny, adds depth to her narrative, highlighting themes of love, commitment, and family. However, in Season 3, Episode 8, titled “Malfunction,” Hen faced an unforeseen tragedy that not only tested her professionally but also shook her to her core personally – and it’s one of the 9-1-1 moments that’s lived rent-free in my head ever since.

Henrietta Fatally Hit a Young Driver with an Ambulance in 9-1-1 Season 3

The Death Of Evelyn Was Beyond Impactful

The eighth episode of 9-1-1 season 3, “Malfunction”, turned out to be one of the most tragic for Henrietta – and the moment came completely out of nowhere, blindsiding both Hen and us as viewers. The plot of “Malfunction” includes a series of emergencies stemming from technological failures, underscoring the potential perils of our reliance on automated systems.

Amidst these crises, Hen and Chimney are en route to the hospital, transporting a critical patient. As they approach an intersection, a catastrophic malfunction occurs: the traffic lights display green in all directions. Unaware of this glitch, Hen proceeds through the intersection, believing she has the right of way. Simultaneously, Evelyn, a young cello player, also enters the intersection from a different direction, resulting in a devastating collision.

The immediate aftermath of Hen’s ambulance crash in 9-1-1 is harrowing. Despite Hen and Chimney’s swift efforts to render aid, Evelyn succumbs to her injuries. This incident became an unforgettable moment in 9-1-1, not only due to its tragic nature but also because it delves deep into the emotional and psychological ramifications for Hen. The weight of Evelyn’s death becomes a near-unshakable weight around Hen’s neck, leading her to question her actions, decisions, and even her future within the fire department.

However, as much as Hen blames herself, she’s not at fault. Like many 9-1-1 fans, I have seen “Malfunction” multiple times to try and make sense of this sudden dark moment for Henrietta. As much as the blame for the accident seems to rest on her shoulders, she did absolutely nothing wrong.

Emergency vehicles, such as ambulances, operate under specific protocols, especially when transporting critical patients. They are granted the right of way, often proceeding through intersections with caution, even when traffic signals are not in their favor. In “Malfunction”, Hen adhered to standard operating procedures, entering the intersection under the assumption that the path was clear. The unforeseen traffic light malfunction was an external factor beyond her control, making it the primary cause of the accident.

The 9-1-1 episode’s title, “Malfunction,” points to the real culprit – a technological failure leading to tragic consequences. This theme resonates throughout the episode, with other emergencies highlighting the potential dangers of system errors. Hen’s situation serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictability first responders face and the heavy burden they carry when outcomes turn fatal, even when they are not to blame.

This incident also serves as a narrative device to explore broader themes within 9-1-1, such as the fallibility of technology and the emotional toll on first responders. Hen’s journey through “Malfunction” and during the aftermath underscores the importance of mental health and the need for support systems for those who routinely face traumatic situations. It also highlights the unpredictable nature of their profession, where even the most diligent and skilled individuals can find themselves entangled in unforeseen tragedies. Ultimately, it’s Hen’s trauma that makes the moment so unshakable from memory more than the crash itself.

Henrietta Has Had Near-Death Experiences Herself

Hen Is No Stranger To Loss Of Life – And Neither Is Her Wife

The death of Evelyn in “Malfunction” isn’t the only brush Henrietta has had with death in 9-1-1. Hen’s life has been punctuated by several near-death experiences, both before and during her tenure at Station 118. These encounters have not only shaped her character but also deepened her empathy and commitment to her calling.

One of the most harrowing incidents from her past occurred during her time in Afghanistan. Serving as a medic, Hen was involved in a mission that went awry, leading to a helicopter crash. The crash left her stranded in hostile territory, fighting for survival against both environmental challenges and enemy forces. This experience fortified her resilience and underscored the fragility of life, reinforcing her dedication to saving others.

Within the timeline of 9-1-1, Hen has faced perilous situations that brought her close to death. In one episode, she was shot while responding to a domestic disturbance call, a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in her profession. Another incident involved a bridge collapse, where Hen and her team were trapped amidst the wreckage, battling time and structural instability to rescue survivors and themselves. These experiences have not only tested her physical endurance but also her mental fortitude, each time emerging stronger and more resolute.

Hen’s wife, Karen, has also faced life-threatening situations, adding layers to their shared narrative. In 9-1-1 season 6, Karen’s workplace becomes the site of a catastrophic explosion. The blast traps her and several colleagues under debris, with fires raging and time running out. Hen, upon learning of the incident, is thrust into a state of profound fear and helplessness, experiencing the anguish of potentially losing her partner. The 118 team mounts a daring rescue, and Karen is saved, but the ordeal leaves emotional scars.