Settlement of $1.75 million in Lynnwood jail suicide lawsuit

LYNNWOOD, Wash., September 17, 2023—The family of Tirhas Berhand Tesfatsion, a 47-year-old woman who committed suicide in the Lynnwood Jail on July 13, 2021, accepted a settlement offer, with conditions, by the city of Lynnwood in the amount of $1,750,001. “The [Tesfatsion] Family will continue to do everything in their power to ensure this doesn’t happen […]

Family files wrongful death lawsuit against city of Lynnwood

LYNNWOOD, Wash., July 15, 2023—The family of Tirhas Berhand Tesfatsion, a 47-year-old woman was found dead at the Lynnwood Jail on July 13, 2021, filed suit against the City of Lynnwood and five staff members on Wednesday, July 12, in United States District Court in Seattle alleging that jail staff negligence contributed to her suicide. […]

Youth Suicide Prevention Task Force formed in Snohomish County

SNOHOMISH COUNTY, Wash., September 2, 2021 – The Snohomish County Children’s Wellness Coalition yesterday announced the creation of the Snohomish County Youth Suicide Prevention Task Force (YSPTF). The YSPTF will work to reduce incidence of suicide and increase the mental health and resiliency of youth. Suicide is preventable, and yet it is the 10th leading […]

Official report into the death of Tesfatsion released

Update – 6:05 p.m. July 28, 2021: The state Attorney General’s Office said today that it does not have the authority to investigate Tesfatsion’s death. It is up to the Snohomish County Prosecutor’s Office to pursue. LYNWOOD, Wash., July 28, 2021 – Tirhas Berhand Tesfatsion, a 47-year old woman was found dead at the Lynnwood […]

FCC considering texting option for suicide hotline

The Federal Communications Commission is looking to require a texting option for the soon-to-be National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number of 988. Last summer, the FCC voted to require phone companies to route calls made to 988 to the Lifeline by July 2022. The current number of 1-800-273-TALK (8255) will still be active during and after […]