Off-Duty Connecticut Officer Dies by Apparent Suicide

A 19-year veteran of the Bridgeport (CT) Police Department was found dead in his home over the weekend, and the department said it is investigating the death as an apparent suicide.

"We are all deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Sergeant Mark Belinkie," Mayor Joe Ganim said in a statement. "As we grieve, we will continue to have his family, friends and his colleagues of the Bridgeport Police Department in our thoughts and prayers."

According to the Connecticut Post , Belinkie joined the Bridgeport Police Department in 2000 at 24, according to a release from the city. He served as detective and was promoted to sergeant in 2011, where he served in the patrol division before his death.

Editor's Note: Any first responder approaching crisis is urged to call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255), which provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress.

Safe Call Now (1-206-459-3020) offers those services specifically for first responders.