GA Teen Steals Police Car, Dies By Suicide: Sheriff

CUMMING, GA — A 15-year-old boy died Monday evening after authorities say the teenager stole a Sandy Springs patrol car from an officer's Forsyth County home and then shot himself.

The Forsyth County Sheriff's Office on Tuesday said the police car was stolen around 7 p.m. from the officer's driveway. The officer was not home at the time.

Minutes later, deputies found the police car on Peachtree Parkway near Sharon Road and South Forsyth High School, authorities said.

Deputies tried to box in the car, but it hit the rear of an FCSO patrol car, authorities said. Deputies then noticed the boy was not responding to commands and was seemingly bleeding from the head, authorities said.

They pulled the boy from the car, noticing he had a self-inflicted gunshot wound, authorities said. The boy, who was identified as the Sandy Springs officer's family member, was later pronounced dead at a hospital, authorities said.

The FCSO's Major Crimes Unit, with the assistance of the Sandy Springs Police Department, is investigating the case.

If you or someone you know is considering self-harm or suicide, there are resources available. The National Suicide Prevention Hotline operates 24 hours a day and can be reached at 800-273-8255. The Crisis Text Line can provide support through text messages by texting "HOME" to 741741.