Posted: Jan 17, 2013 11:26 AM by Sam Salzwedel
Updated: Jan 17, 2013 11:37 AM
TUCSON - Dustin Wernli's parents did not want to talk on camera, but
they shared photos of their son. They say their Wernli was a Navy
combat medic. In 2004, he was deployed with the Marine Corp in Iraq
where he suffered a head injury from an explosion.
Tucson Police say Tuesday night Wernli called 911 saying he was suicidal and wanted police to shoot him.
Wernli pulled a gun on an officer and that's exactly what happened.
Doctor Dan Ranieri works for La Frontera Arizona where they help veterans who are returning from war.
"They're
having a hard time finding homes, they're having a hard time finding
jobs, they're having a hard time staying in jobs once they find they're
having a difficult time with their relationships," Ranieri said.
He
says the military set a record this year with an active service member
committing suicide about once a day. Ranieri says there are lots of
places for soldiers to find support sometimes too many.
"There are so many places to go that it gets pretty confusing and
just the shear confusion of it all it may force somebody to inaction."
Ranieri has treated many veterans and does not want them to wait until their suicidal.
"If you're struggling and you need a helping hand that's the best
time. Obviously the earlier in the process the better," he said.
Dustin Wernli's parents say their son was in treatment for
post-traumatic stress but like a lot of other veterans, his suicidal
thoughts ended in his death.
http://www.kvoa.com/news/ptsd-factor-in-tucson-veteran-s-death/