Heyburn PD issues press release regarding Wednesday evenings welfare check incident

HEYBURN, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) — The Heyburn Police Department issued a news release in relation to the incident that happened on Wednesday evening near the intersection of 21st and Mona Streets.

According to the release, officers with the Heyburn Police Department responded to a welfare check on an individual and shortly after the officer arrived, they heard a gunshot from inside the residence.

Officers attempted to contact the resident, who failed to respond despite multiple attempts. Due to the lack of response Heyburn PD officers treated the incident as a potential standoff and took the necessary precautions to notify residents to evacuate the area in the interest of public safety.

Cassia and Minidoka SWAT teams were brought in as a precaution and to assist Heyburn officers. When they were able to make entry into the home, they found a deceased male occupant, from an apparent self-inflicted single gunshot wound.

The Heyburn Police Department and all area law enforcement agencies strongly encourages those who are struggling emotionally and mentally to reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, 988, and wants the public to know that there are resources available locally, to include PAUSE Mini-Cassia in Burley and the Crisis Center in Twin Falls.

They would also like to thank the Cassia County and Minidoka County law enforcement for their efforts and assistance, as well as the community’s patience regarding this situation.

Out of respect for the family, they will not release the victim’s name.

Heyburn Police Chief, Ryan Bertalotto said, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the victim on this tragic night. Suicide is an epidemic that has affected too many Idahoans. It’s okay to seek help, and we encourage those who are struggling to use resources that are available.”

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