The Metropolitan Police Department confirmed the deaths of two more officers who died by suicide after defending the Capitol during the January 6 riot, bringing the total of such deaths to four.
Gunther Hashida, 43, was found dead at his home last Thursday (July 29), a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police Department told CNBC. Hours later, MPD confirmed the death of Kyle deFreytag, 26, who died by suicide and found on July 10.
Within a month of the January attack, two other officers, Jeffery Smith of the MPD and Howard Liebengood of the US Capitol Police died by suicide.
A fifth officer, Brian Sicknick of the Capitol Police Department, died after suffering two strokes a day after the capitol riot. A medical examiner said “all that transpired” during the attack contributed to Sicknick’s condition.
Last month, several officers who also protected lawmakers during the riot testified before the January 6 Special Committee, describing the trauma they endured.
One of the officers, Harry Dunn, called on his colleagues during his testimony to reach out to mental health resources available to officers. Dunn also called on leaders to put more resources in place for officers.
The attack on the Capitol began after Donald Trump lied about election fraud that contributed to his defeat. The mob, made up of Trump supporters, were seeking to overturn the election results, after believing the lies Trump told.
Over 500 people have been arrested in connection with the attack that injured approximately 140 officers.
If you or someone you know need mental health help, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to be connected to a certified crisis counselor or contact The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255.
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