Covington High School was under a code yellow Wednesday after a student was discovered in need of medical attention following an apparent suicide attempt on campus.
The student was discovered at approximately 11:25 a.m., during a lunch period, according to a joint press release from the Covington Police Department and Tipton County Schools district.
Emergency procedures were initiated and continued once first responders arrived on scene. The 16-year-old was transported to Baptist-Tipton and later airlifted to LeBonheur where they remain in critical condition.
The Leader does not report on suicides, however the attempt was committed in a public place where hundreds of minors were present. We will not publish identifying information about the student or their family members.
Detectives remained at the school Wednesday afternoon to process the scene and classes resumed, however many parents checked their children out early. Central Office personnel and mental health specialists were on-site to assist students and staff in need of services.
Anyone with information is asked to call Central Dispatch at 901-475-4300.
Police chief Donna Turner and Superintendent Dr. John Combs are meeting with the family. In the release they said they extend their thoughts and prayers with the student, their family, and the CHS students and staff.
If you are or someone you know is in danger of self-harm, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (Lifeline) at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or text the Crisis Text Line (text HELLO to 741741). Both services are free and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All calls are confidential. Contact social media outlets directly if you are concerned about a friend’s social media updates or dial 911 in an emergency.
See the National Institute of Mental Health’s Suicide Prevention site for more information.
Author: Echo Day
Echo Day is an award-winning journalist, photographer and designer. She is currently The Leader's managing editor.
