Japanese Am officer who fought off Capitol seige takes own life

(Editor’s Note: This story has been updated with word of yet another death by suicide).

The Washington, DC police confirms that yet another officer involved in fighting off the insurrection at the Capitol on January 6 has died by suicide, reports CNBC.

Gunther Hashida worked in the emergency response unit of the Special Operations Division of the Metropolitan Police Department. He joined the force in 2003.

“We are grieving as a Department as our thoughts and prayers are with Officer Hashida’s family and friends,” said Department spokeswoman, Brianna Burch.

According to CNN, 12-year veteran Officer Jeffrey Smith and 16-year veteran Howard Liebengood of the Capitol Police are the other two.

After confirming Hashida’s death, the department also confirmed that earlier in July, Officer Kyle DeFreytag also died by suicide.

During congressional testimony about the riots last week, an officer urged his fellow team members to seek emotional support and professional counseling if they need it.

“What we all went through that day was traumatic, and if you are hurting, please take advantage of the counseling services that are available to us,” said Capitol Police Officer Harry Dunn.

A family friend launched a Go Fund Me to support the family and help pay for funeral expenses. Hashida leaves behind a wife, three children and a sister. So far more than 50,000 has been raised.

Anyone in need of help, can call the Suicide Prevention Hotline 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255.

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