VIRGINIA BEACH — Police have determined that a Salem High School student who died on Thursday committed suicide.
According to the Virginia Beach Police Department, the male student died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. They have not released the victim’s name or age.
Salem High School was locked down after the student suffered from what police originally called a “medical issue.” A cardiac arrest call was received at 8:10 a.m., according to Tonya Pierce, a spokesperson for Virginia Beach police.
The school went into external lockdown mode after 9 a.m., said Virginia Beach City Public Schools spokesperson Eileen Cox.
Virginia Beach police’s forensic services unit was at the school. A Southside Daily reporter also observed someone identifying herself as “crisis response” arrive at the school.
According to an alert sent by the school, grief counselors are on campus for students and staff.
The incident happened on the same day about 200 parents were at the school for “A Day in the Sun.” The annual event allows parents to come to school to shadow their students.
If you are struggling with depression or mental health concerns, reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
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