Editor’s Note: This story contains information about suicide / sexual assault and may be triggering to some readers. If you are suicidal or having suicidal ideations, please call 988 immediately.
The unexpected death of Elmore County deputy sheriff Stephen Sims shocked many.
Sims died Thursday of a self-inflicted gunshot wound while attending law enforcement training in Fultondale.
Fultondale Police Department spokesperson Sgt. John Tanks said four Elmore County deputies had just returned to the Fultondale Event Center after lunch to continue training for dealing with sex offenders.
“They started to walk back into the facility,” Tanks said. “One stayed behind and he committed suicide.”
The Fultondale Police Department is investigating the death and investigators have spoken with many on the scene Thursday.
“All indications from the people he was with (say) he was OK,” Tanks said. “You never know what a person is going through on the inside. They heard a gunshot. They called us.”
The FBI reports suicide among law enforcement officers is not uncommon.
In 2022, 32 law enforcement officers died by suicide in the U.S. Nine attempts were not successful.
The FBI said potential factors contribute to law enforcement suicide such as relationship problems, burnout, depression and PTSD.
Elmore County Sheriff Bill Franklin sent staff to Fultondale to be with Sims' family and the other deputies. Franklin has taken measures to help his department grieve and recover from the experience.
“With our chaplain and others we are going to offer to support them and see if they are in need of help or counseling,” Franklin said. “It is something that they are not around or witness much in their life. Hopefully none of it will happen again but we know from time to time things are going to happen.”
Sims was attending training hosted by the Covenant Rescue Group of Gardendale. According to the group’s website the organization is involved in efforts to rescue victims and arrest criminals involved in human trafficking. They share a passion for helping children who fall victim to human trafficking.
Following Sims death, Covenant released a statement.
“Our prayers go out to the family, friends and colleagues of the officer during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement read. “We cannot begin to express the sorrow we feel for their loss.”
The organization encourages anyone struggling with thoughts of suicide or in need of support to reach out for help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), providing free and confidential support for individuals in distress.
Even with Sims’ death Covenant said it will continue its mission.
“We remain committed to supporting law enforcement officers and communities in their efforts to combat sex trafficking and promote safety and well-being for all,” the organization said.
