Four Texas Deputies From the Same Department Die by Suicide in Just Six Weeks
A Texas sheriff’s office is reeling after a devastating series of tragedies: four deputies linked to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) died by suicide within a six-week period, leaving colleagues, loved ones, and the wider community in shock.
On March 19, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez shared on Facebook that retired deputy William Bozeman had died from an apparent suicide, noting it was the third in just a week. “Our hearts are heavy,” Gonzalez wrote. “We extend our deepest condolences to their families, colleagues, and friends. It’s a painful reminder that life is fragile and time is not promised. May they Rest in Peace.”
But Bozeman’s death was actually the fourth suicide connected to the department in less than two months, an alarming pattern that has drawn national attention.
‘Two Beautiful Angels’
Earlier that same week, on March 13, Deputy Christina Kohler, 37, died by suicide. Just three days later, former deputy Maria Vasquez, 42, also took her own life. The HCSO Community Engagement Division posted a heartbreaking message: “Heaven has gained two beautiful angels – Deputy Christina Kohler and retired Deputy Maria Vasquez. May their memory be a blessing, inspiring strength and comfort to their friends, family, and coworkers during this difficult time.”
The wave of losses began on February 6, when former deputy Nguyen, 58, died by suicide, according to the medical examiner. For many within the department, Nguyen’s death was the first shockwave in what would become an unbearable succession of heartbreak.
‘One Is Too Many’
“This caught us all by surprise,” said Jose Lopez, president of the Harris County Deputies’ Organization. Lopez, who personally knew two of the officers for more than two decades, said the string of suicides has left the department raw.
“One is too many. Two? Three? Four? It’s devastating,” Lopez told KTRK. “It reminds us just how fragile life is. And it reminds us we must look out for each other, because this job takes so much from you.”
The Silent Toll of the Badge
Suicide has become a growing crisis in law enforcement. A report by the CNA Corporation and First H.E.L.P. found that between 2016 and 2022, at least 1,287 U.S. public safety officers died by suicide—though experts believe the real number is far higher due to underreporting.
Research by Dr. John Violanti of the University at Buffalo reveals that police officers face a 54% higher risk of suicide than those in other professions, largely due to repeated exposure to trauma and the immense stress of the job.
“This profession takes a toll,” said Thomas McNeese, head of HCSO’s wellness program. “Over time, it changes people. And when tragedies like this happen one after another, it feels like a bomb going off.”
Searching for Answers
Despite efforts to expand mental health resources, leaders within HCSO admit the recent string of deaths has sparked painful reflection.
“We have to ask ourselves—are we doing enough? Do we need to try something different? What more can we do?” Lopez said.
Sheriff Gonzalez echoed those concerns, sharing his personal grief. “It hurts, and I grieve each loss,” he told CNN. “When a deputy dies by suicide, it is particularly painful because I can’t help wondering what could have been said or done to help them.”
What do you think should be done to better support the mental health of first responders? Share your thoughts—and take a moment to thank local law enforcement for the physical and emotional sacrifices they make every day.