Savannah, GA (August 23, 2018) – On Wednesday, August 22, 2018, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s Child Fatality Review Unit hosted a Youth Suicide Prevention and Awareness Summit at the Savannah Civic Center. The Summit was held in partnership with the Savannah Police Department to reduce childhood fatalities in Chatham County and the Coastal Region.

The summit was held to address the rise in youth suicides in Georgia, discuss how to recognize warning signs, and promote prevention efforts. So far in 2018, 24 youth suicides have been reported in the state. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for ages 15 to 17.

"The topic of suicide is a sensitive one. The first thing families have to do is have communication with their child. They also need to recognize when a child's behavior changes. There are many behaviors when a child is contemplating suicide,” said Vernon M. Keenan, Director of the GBI.

“The youth in our community need to feel cared for and safe. It is our responsibility as adults and individuals in public service to ensure that,” said Assistant Chief Kerry Thomas, of the Savannah Police Department. “Raising awareness about suicide prevention, especially among our youth, is one way to further the goal of a safe and healthy community.”

Also presenting during the summit were:

Trebor Randle, Special Agent in Charge, GBI Child Fatality Review Unit

Sheila Deas-Dinkins, Region 12 Director, Georgia Division of Family and Children Services

Alloceia Hall, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

Ashunti Lyons, Savannah-Chatham County Schools System

For access to services, regardless of income or insurance, the Georgia Crisis and Access Line (GCAL) is available 24/7 to help you or someone you care for in a mental health crisis at 1-800-715-4225.

Contact Information:

Trebor Randle - Special Agent in Charge - 404-270-8715