Police say sergeant’s death is 5th NYPD suicide since June

NEW YORK (AP) - Authorities say a New York City police sergeant has fatally shot himself in what was the city’s fifth police suicide since June.

Police say the sergeant was found dead in his Staten Island home Saturday. His name was not immediately released.

Mayor Bill de Blasio said, “These tragedies cannot continue. We cannot lose any more of our officers.” De Blasio urged any officer who is in need to ask for help.

Police Commissioner James O’Neill said in a statement that “it is okay to seek help from others.”

Chief of Department Terence Monahan tweeted , “Help is always available_within the department or on the outside.”

_______

Editor’s note: The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-TALK (8255).