'Heartbreaking loss': Chicago police officer dies by suicide Thursday, CPD says
If you or a loved one is feeling distressed, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The crisis center provides free and confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to civilians and veterans. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-8255 or text HOME to 741-741 (Crisis Text Line)
CLICK HERE for the warning signs and risk factors of suicide. Call 1-800-273-TALK for free and confidential emotional support.
CHICAGO — The Chicago Police Department is mourning the loss of an officer who died by suicide on Thursday.
"The Chicago Police Department has experienced the heartbreaking loss of an off-duty officer today to an apparent suicide. We ask that the people of Chicago pray for this officer’s family, loved ones, and fellow officers as they mourn this devastating loss," CPD said in a statement.
Department sources described the officer as a 51-year-old man who worked in the Austin District.
Last week, CPD announced they are working with the "National Alliance on Mental Illness" to get officers the help they need.
Through the partnership, the organization says it has identified a need to offer mental health support to officers because law enforcement culture has focused on "toughening up," which has prevented officers from seeking help.
The organization says it has worked with CPD's crisis intervention program since 2004.
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Twenty sworn Chicago police officers have died from suicide since 2018, including five this year, according to figures provided by a police spokesman. In 2017, a report by the U.S. Department of Justice found the department’s suicide rate was 60% higher than the national average.
The deaths have highlighted the mental health issues facing sworn officers, and have renewed condemnation of the department’s decision to routinely cancel days off, a practice that underscores deep staffing woes.
"The physical and emotional wellbeing of our officers remains the top priority of our department," Police Supt. David Brown said during a recent news conference.
The city provides counseling services to employees and their families through the Employee Assistance Program, which can be reached at (312) 743-0378. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers help around the clock for people in crisis at (800) 273-8255.
If you or a loved one is feeling distressed, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The crisis center provides free and confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to civilians and veterans. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-8255 or text HOME to 741-741 (Crisis Text Line)
CLICK HERE for the warning signs and risk factors of suicide. Call 1-800-273-TALK for free and confidential emotional support.
Sun-Times Media Wire contributed to this report.