Lake County Sheriff’s Office Has Stand-Off With Suicidal Man

At approximately 10:20 a.m. Friday, June 1, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 17000 block of West Roberts Court, in unincorporated Gurnee for a subject threatening to kill himself with a firearm.

The mother, who had left the residence to call 9-1-1 at a neighbors, reported that her 28-year old son, had a history of mental illness. While on the phone with LCSO 9-1-1 dispatchers, the mother reported hearing a gun shot, according to a release from the Lake County Sheriff's Office. 

Arriving Deputies found the subject in the driveway of the residence. He was brandishing a bolt-action rifle.  The scene was quickly secured by numerous LCSO deputies including members of the LCSO Tactical Response Team (TRT). 

Sergeant Timothy Jonites, one of the first deputies on scene, immediately began negotiations with the subject.  The subject threatened to shoot himself several times during the stand-off, placing the weapon to his chin and in his mouth.  He also made request for the deputies to take his life.

After approximately 40 minutes, the subject put the gun down and surrendered. He was taken into protective custody pending the arrival of rescue. The subject was transported by Gurnee Fire and Rescue to Vista West Hospital in Waukegan. 

During the incident, were placed on lockdown as a precaution. Bus companies were also notified. A reverse 9-1-1 was also put into action by Gurnee Police just prior to the subject surrendering. Gurnee Police Department Officers also assisted the LCSO with perimeter control.

“This appears to have begun as what is known as an attempted “suicide by cop,” said Sheriff Mark Curran.  “However, our officers were able to talk the subject down and out of his fateful mode. I think many are grateful for the poise and the professionalism shown by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies.” 

- Submitted by the Lake County Sheriff's Office.