IONIA COUNTY (WWJ) - One person is hospitalized after they allegedly open fired at Ionia County Sheriff's deputies during a mental health crisis this week -- and authorities shot back.
According to a press release from the Ionia County Sheriff, Michigan State Police are now investigating the incident that unfolded just after 9 p.m. on Wednesday, June 21 between a "suicidal subject" and deputies.
The sheriff's office said that the Ionia County Central Dispatch received a report of a person experiencing a dangerous mental health crisis at a home in Ionia Township and dispatched deputies to the location.
When deputies arrived on scene, they located the subject and safely evacuated everyone from the residence. Deputies tried to resolve the situation peacefully with the subject, who was armed, but they became upset.
The situation escalated and the person fired at deputies, prompting them to fire back, the sheriff's office added.
The individual was struck by gunfire and deputies immediately provided aid. The person was transported to a local hospital where they are said by deputies to be in stable condition.
Troopers also arrived at the scene to collect evidence. MSP is now handling an investigation into the incident.
No other information was released.
For those in crisis, help is available. Suicide prevention resources include:
• The National Suicide Prevention Hotline can be reached over the phone by dialing the three-digit code “988.”
• Crisis Text Line is another resource, offering a texting service for emotional crisis support. To speak with a trained listener, text HELLO to 741741. It is free, available 24/7 and confidential.
• The Veteran Crisis Hotline is 1-800-273-8255, press 1.