Alert Deputy Intervenes to Stop Suicide Attempt
Sunday evening Deputy Brad Humphrey noticed a suspicious vehicle with a hose attached to the exhaust in a parking lot in Airway Heights. It was determined the adult male inside vehicle was attempting to end his life but thankfully, he was provided the help he desperately needed.
On January 14th, 2018 at approximately 6:30 p.m., Deputy Humphrey was driving through the parking lot of the Airway Heights Walmart when his attention was drawn to a vehicle parked on the far west side. As he drove toward the vehicle, he noticed a dryer hose attached to the exhaust pipe which ran into the open trunk.
Deputy Humphrey parked, approached the vehicle an observed and adult male covered with a blanket, reclined back in the driver’s seat. All the windows of the vehicle were rolled up and the rear passenger seat was folded down, exposing the trunk, allowing the exhaust fumes of the running vehicle to enter the passenger compartment.
Deputy Humphrey advised dispatchers of the information and requested assistance. Airway Heights Fire Department and Airway Heights Police Officers (Officer Suniga & Corporal Newman) responded quickly to assist while Deputy Humphrey tried to wake the male.
Several persistent raps on the window, yelling, and the bright beam of a flashlight finally got the attention of the male and he rolled the window down. Deputy Humphrey unlocked and opened the door allowing the exhaust fumes to dissipate. Although conscious, the male was disoriented and was provided medical attention.
After he was taken into protective custody for further treatment, he thanked Deputy Humphrey for contacting him.
This situation could have ended tragically if Deputy Humphrey wouldn’t have noticed the vehicle and contacted this person in crisis. We would like to remind anyone who is feeling depressed and thinking about harming themselves, there is hope and resources to help you.
National Suicide Hotline 1-800-273-Talk (8255)
First Call for Help (509)838-4428
Walk in to any Emergency Room
Call 911
Additional information and resources can be found on the Spokane Regional Health District website at this link. https://srhd.org/health-topics/injury-violence-safety/suicide-prevention