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Police shoot, kill suicidal man in south Salem Friday

A suicidal man armed with a shotgun was shot and killed by police in southeast Salem Friday evening, according to the Oregon State Police.

The shooting occurred on Southeast Ewald Avenue near Southeast Ash Avenue.

The name of the man, reported to be in his 20s, wasn’t released.

State police are handling the investigation because a Salem Police Department officer was involved.

Police said firefighters responded to the area about 5:15 p.m. on reports that the man had injured himself and “the man threatened them with a firearm.”

The man then confronted police officers “and an officer fired and hit him. Despite lifesaving attempts he was pronounced deceased at the scene,” the statement said.

The officer, not identified, was placed on administrative leave as part of protocol.

GETTING HELP:

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 1-800-273-TALK(8255), and connects callers with a crisis center near them. For help in Spanish, call 1-888-628-9454.

Warning signs for suicide include withdrawal, isolation and talking about being in unbearable pain or being a burden to others. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention has a list of risk factors, warning signs and suggestions for helping someone who may be thinking about suicide.

Police block off Southeast Ewald Avenue on Friday, April 2, after an officer fatally shot a suicidal man. (Marion Polk Crime, Traffic and Severe Weather Alerts Facebook photo)