Veteran Toronto police officer commits suicide in police headquarters

The death of a veteran Toronto police officer last Thursday is being investigated as a suicide.

Chief Mark Saunders has confirmed Const. Mike Austin’s death. According to sources, the veteran officer shot himself inside the parking garage at the Toronto Police headquarters in College Street, Thursday night. Const. Austin served in the force for 21 years.

Const. Austin was one of many police officers who have suffered from PTSD. He was shot while on duty in 2006.

Since 2012, there have been more than 12 officers died by suicide. According to Saunders, Toronto police are now focusing on member wellness, especially that this event has also affected the whole police community.

Toronto police are also supporting Austin’s family for their loss.