MPD calls on state DOJ to investigate suicide of heroin overdose patient at St. Joseph Hospital

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Milwaukee police have called upon the Wisconsin Department of Justice to investigate the death of an overdose victim who killed himself in the emergency room at St. Joseph Hospital around noon on Wednesday, March 25th.

Two Milwaukee police officers and Milwaukee Fire Department personnel responded to a report of a man overdosing on heroin in a parking lot in the 4400 block of W. Capitol Drive at about 11:00 a.m.

The Milwaukee Fire Department stabilized the man and transported him to St. Joseph Hospital for medical treatment.

Per protocol, as part of the investigation into the man's mental well-being, a Milwaukee police officer accompanied MFD personnel in the ambulance.

Once admitted to the hospital, the man was given privacy by the officer and a nurse to use the restroom. During this time, the nurse and officer heard noises inside the restroom causing them concern. They entered the restroom and found the man suffering from a self-inflicted knife wound.

The officer and nurse unsuccessfully attempted life-saving measures.

While the man had not been placed in custody by Milwaukee police when he committed suicide, MPD has requested the Department of Justice to investigate the death out of an abundance of caution and to ensure compliance with Wisconsin law.

Both responding officers have been placed on administrative duty pending the outcome of the investigation.