Body Of Suicidal Man Found Near East Valley School

SPOKANE VALLEY — A frantic early morning search for an armed and suicidal former East Valley student which prompted a district-wide lockdown has ended at East Valley Middle School where his body has been found.

The incident began when the parents of a former student found a note alleging suicidal threats made by her son that specifically mentioned East Valley High School.

They found the note about 5:30 a.m. Friday saying that their son was going to track down a girlfriend with whom had recently ended a relationship. It went on to say that he then intended to take his own life. The man, who has not been identified, had taken a pistol and ammunition from the home.

All schools across the East Valley district were placed on a two hour delay then closed entirely as officers looked to ensure the safety of faculty, students and staff.

About 150 students were at East Valley High School when the lockdown was initiated and those students were brought to a commons room and not allowed to leave originally. They have since been taken to Trent Elementary school were parents could pick them up. Students that were on buses and unable to turn around were also taken to Trent.

Meanwhile the former girlfriend of the man has been contacted and is in a safe place.

At about 10 a.m. the body of the 25-year-old man was found near East Valley Junior High School by one of his friends, who then notified the man’s mother. His body had been there for some time and initial reports indicate he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

“It’s really sad, he was a nice boy, a really boy,” family friend Valerie Nelson said.

Nelson said the man had been depressed lately.

“I just wish I could have done something to help him. I wish I would have known he hurt that bad.  I would have done something to help,” Nelson added.

The sheriff’s office says this is one of about 100 suicides deputies respond to each year.  Deputies say they’re disappointed this ended this way, but pleased no one else was hurt.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing.