A 26-year-old man was found dead Tuesday after North Ridgeville police responded to a report of a possible suicidal individual at a residence in the city, according to a press release from the North Ridgeville Police Department.
Police said officers were dispatched at approximately 11:00 a.m. after receiving a call concerning a male who may have been suicidal and possibly armed. Upon arrival, officers observed the individual seated and unresponsive in a vehicle parked in a driveway.
Because a firearm was believed to be involved, the Eastern Lorain County Emergency Response Team (ELCERT) was requested to assist. The area near Stoney Ridge Road and Atlantic Avenue was secured as a precaution while officers and emergency personnel assessed the situation.
Authorities later confirmed that ELCERT located the 26-year-old male deceased inside the vehicle. Police stated the death appeared to be the result of a self-inflicted injury. No officers or members of the public were injured.
During the response, multiple police vehicles were observed with emergency lights activated as light rain fell in the area. At least one officer maintained a security position along Stoney Ridge Road while the scene was investigated.
“The 26-year-old male was later found by ELCERT deceased in the vehicle,” the police department said in its statement. “The matter is still under investigation.”
Officials have not released the man’s identity, pending notification of family. No further details were immediately available.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, confidential help is available through local resources or by contacting the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 in the United States.