Police Department

SPD Death Investigation

Sgt. Terry Preuninger, PIO

Monday, September 9, 2019 at 3:43 p.m.

Spokane Police Officers responded to a 911 call on the North side of town to a report of a man who had sustained significant self-inflicted injuries and was fading in and out of consciousness.   When Officers arrived they had to force their way into a locked bathroom where the injured man physically resisted any attempts officers made to administer first aid.  The officers were able to restrain him so that he could be treated for his injuries.  He was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced dead a short time later.

On Saturday evening 09-07-2019 at 7:17 pm Spokane Police responded to a 911 call from a woman who was screaming that a man was bloody, in a shower and may have hurt himself.  While Officers and medical personnel were still responding to the incident the caller continued to provide updated information and described significant injuries to the male as well as significant blood loss.  Before officers or medical personnel arrived, the caller advised the male was in and out of consciousness and possibly hallucinating.  She also advised when he was conscious the injured male would not let her near him to render aid. 

When Officers arrived the male had locked himself in the bathroom and would not allow them in.  Officers saw evidence indicating significant injury outside the door.  In order to render aid they forced open the door, the officers immediately noted significant injuries to the male. The officers were met with physical resistance from the male inhibiting their efforts to render aid.  Despite his resistance, officers were eventually able to restrain him.  They immediately began first aid, along with medics, to treat the self-inflicted injuries. The male was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced dead a short time later.  

The Spokane Investigative Regional Response Team was activated and will be conducting the law enforcement investigation due to the unusual nature of this incident.  

The Spokane Police Department typically responds to multiple suicide calls each day.  If you or someone you know is feeling depressed, please contact First call for help 1 877 266 1818.

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