PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Police in Washington are now confirming two more officers who responded to the Jan. 6 attack at the U.S. Capitol have died by suicide. One of the officers is originally from Pennsylvania.
The Washington, D.C., Metropolitan Police Department announced the latest cases on Monday, bringing to four the total number of officers who have died by suicide in connection with the insurrection. MPD officer Kyle DeFreytag died on July 10 at the age of 26. He was born in Canadensis, Monroe County, Pennsylvania according to his obituary. He also graduated from Northampton Community College in Bethlehem and served as a police officer in the nation’s capital for five years.
The MPD also revealed that officer Gunther Hashida, an 18-year veteran of the force, was found dead last Thursday.
"All Americans are indebted to him for his great valor and patriotism on Jan. 6 and throughout his selfless service," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said in an official statement. "May his life be an inspiration to all to protect our country and democracy."
Previously, officials said MPD officer Jeffrey Smith and Capitol Police officer Howard Liebengood died by suicide in the days following the attack. A fifth member of law enforcement, Brian Sicknick of Capitol Police, died on Jan. 7. He had been sprayed with a chemical as he confronted rioters, but the Washington, D.C., medical examiner later determined that he suffered two strokes and died from natural causes.
More than 150 officers were injured during the attack.
"More than six months later, Jan. 6 still isn’t over for me," Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn said in his opening remarks last Tuesday at a House select committee hearing on the insurrection.
"I’ve had to avail myself of multiple counseling sessions from the Capitol Police Employee Assistance Program, and I’m now receiving private counseling therapy for the persistent emotional trauma of that day."
Dunn, who was one of four officers who testified, also implored his colleagues to get the help if they need it.
"There is absolutely nothing wrong with seeking professional counseling," Dunn said. "What we went through that day was traumatic, and if you’re hurting, please take advantage of the counseling services that are available to us."
For anyone seeking assistance, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255. The Crisis Text Line also offers emotional crisis support. It is a free, confidential service, available 24/7 by texting HELLO to 741741.