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Laredo Suicide Prevention Committee Reports First Death of 2026
Committee reviews January data showing one suicide and multiple crisis calls, underscoring continued efforts to expand mental health support.
Published on Feb. 21, 2026
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The Laredo Suicide Prevention Committee reported its first suicide of the year in January, alongside seven additional suicide attempts recorded across multiple age groups. The meeting revealed the loss of a 43-year-old man who suffered from depression, alcoholism, and bipolar disorder. The committee continues working to support those in need and raise awareness about available mental health resources.
Why it matters
Suicide prevention is a critical public health issue, and the Laredo Suicide Prevention Committee's data highlights the ongoing challenges the community faces. The committee's work to track incidents, provide resources, and raise awareness is essential to addressing this complex problem.
The details
According to the January data presented, the suicide involved a 43-year-old man with previous suicide attempts. Investigators found the suicide may have been planned, citing materials left behind for loved ones. The first crisis call of the year involved an elderly 75-year-old man who was known to suffer from depression and had not been consistently taking his prescribed medication. In total, seven suicide attempts were recorded, with the youngest involving a 13-year-old boy and the oldest the 75-year-old man.
- In January 2026, the Laredo Suicide Prevention Committee reported its first suicide of the year.
- Throughout January 2026, seven suicide attempts were recorded, with the youngest involving a 13-year-old boy and the oldest a 75-year-old man.
The players
Laredo Suicide Prevention Committee
A local committee dedicated to suicide prevention and mental health support in the Laredo, Texas community.
Sgt. Heriberto Avalos
A member of the Laredo Police Department's Mental Health Evaluation Unit who presented the January suicide data.
Dr. Julie Bazan
A member of the Laredo Suicide Prevention Committee who requested a moment of silence for those affected by suicide.
What they’re saying
“It's unfortunate that we have to endure this, but it's the reality of things. So, let's take a moment.”
— Dr. Julie Bazan, Committee Member
“Losing one life to suicide is not what we want to hear, but compared to last year — last year we had 5 in the month of January. We are doing our best, but obviously our best is not enough. We still need to continue educating our community, creating awareness, letting them know where the resources are and more importantly — knowing it's important to reach out for help.”
— Dr. Julie Bazan, Committee Member
What’s next
The committee will continue its efforts to expand mental health awareness and support services in the Laredo community.
The takeaway
This tragic incident underscores the ongoing need for comprehensive suicide prevention efforts, including increased access to mental health resources, community education, and destigmatization of seeking help. The Laredo Suicide Prevention Committee's work is crucial in addressing this public health crisis and supporting those in need.
