Which history is commonly noted in SBC victims?

• A. Previously Suicidal
• B. Never Suicidal
• C. Unknown
• D. Only depressed

Answer: (A)

In suicide-by-cop cases, investigators often find a history of suicidality. This pattern makes previously suicidal the most plausible and useful history to note because individuals who intend to die may seek out police involvement as a route to accomplish that goal. Prior suicidal thoughts or attempts help explain why the incident unfolded the way it did and guide crisis intervention and post-incident understanding.

Saying someone was never suicidal doesn’t fit the common pattern of SBC, and labeling the history as unknown misses the readily documented risk factor. Limiting the history to depression only is too narrow, since suicidality can accompany a range of mental health issues and life stressors beyond just depression.