Law enforcement is credited with helping a military veteran during a mental health crisis on Monday.
Oak Grove Police say they were called to the home of a military veteran to check his welfare due to him making threats to hurt himself with a gun.
Officers could reportedly see the man through a window holding a gun to his head and used de-escalation techniques to get him to surrender to law enforcement.
Police say the veteran was taken to a mental health facility for help. They added that many officers in Oak Grove are trained in crisis intervention techniques for situations like this.
Police recommend that, before situations like this happen, you ask for help or that family members reach out for you to get help.
Police say If you’re concerned about someone with mental health issues who owns firearms and may be a danger to themselves or others, it is essential to take immediate, thoughtful, and compassionate action.
They added that the best approach depends on the severity of the person’s mental health crisis and the level of immediate risk. Some situations may be handled by suggesting gun locks, a safe, or even storing the firearms with family or friends.
Police say you can also contact the County Attorney to seek a mental health petition. If the courts grant it, part of the order could require law enforcement to place the weapons into safekeeping until it is deemed safe for the individual to have them back by the courts.
Mental Health Resources
988 is a text or call service that is confidential.
Pennyroyal Center 1-877-473-7766
Cumberland Hall Hospital 270-886-5163.
