Suicide at Northport VA Under Investigation by FBI

A reported suicide outside Northport Veterans Affairs Medical Center is under investigation by the FBI, a bureau representative said Thursday.

The 76-year-old veteran, who was a patient at the hospital, shot himself outside a nursing home on the campus at around 12:30 p.m. after sources say he was denied emergency medical services, according to the New York Times.

The FBI says this incident is under federal investigation because Northport VA is located on federal property. Both the FBI and Suffolk County Police would not provide additional details because the incident is considered non-criminal.

Patch reached out to a Northport VA representative who said, "There are no words to adequately convey our heartfelt sympathy to the family, friends and neighbors regarding the death of a 76 year-old Veteran found on the grounds of Northport VAMC. The employees here at Northport feel this loss deeply and extend their thoughts and prayers to all those impacted by this tragedy."

The automated response on the VA’s general phone number immediately addresses mental health issues:

“Welcome to the Northport Veterans Affairs Medical Center. If you are having a medical or mental health emergency, hang up and dial 911. If you are having an emotional crisis or having thoughts of hurting yourself and want to talk to a mental health professional, you can reach the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255.”

"We are committed to addressing the needs of all Veterans who are in crisis, and want Veterans and their loved ones to know we stand ready to help whenever possible," the VA representative said. "The Veterans Crisis Line is a resource that connects Veterans in crisis with qualified, caring VA responders through a confidential toll-free hotline, online chat, or text."

Veterans and their loved ones can call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1, chat online, or send a text message to 838255 to receive confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Patch file photo