2 Texas sheriff’s office members die by suicide within days

Harris County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Christina Kohler and retired deputy Maria Vasquez died within days of each other in separate instances

March 19, 2025 12:34 PM •

2 Texas sheriff’s office members die by suicide within days — “Much like the veteran community and the active-duty community, the idea is to tough it out. Or whether it’s due to the fact that they just didn’t know the help was available, or didn’t think it could help,” Acierno told Click2Houston.

Editor’s Note: Suicide is always preventable. If you are having thoughts of suicide or feeling suicidal, please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline immediately at 988. Counselors are also available to chat at www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org. Remember: You deserve to be supported, and it is never too late to seek help. Speak with someone today.

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – The Harris County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that two deputies, Christina Kohler and retired deputy Maria Vasquez, died by suicide in separate incidents, Click2Houston reported.

Kohler died on March 13, with the Harris County Office of the Medical Examiner confirming her death as a suicide. Vasquez died March 16 in Montgomery, according to the report.

The deaths highlight the ongoing need for mental health support for first responders, according to the report. Dr. Ron Acierno, director of the Trauma and Resilience Center at UTHealth Houston, emphasized the importance of breaking the stigma around seeking help.

“Much like the veteran community and the active-duty community, the idea is to tough it out. Or whether it’s due to the fact that they just didn’t know the help was available, or didn’t think it could help,” Acierno told Click2Houston.

The center offers a free, statewide program providing evidence-based mental health treatment for first responders, according to the report. The remote program lasts 12 to 15 weeks and can be accessed by calling 713-486-2630 and leaving a message.

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Joanna Putman

Joanna Putman is an Associate Editor and newswriter at Police1, where she has been covering law enforcement topics since August 2023. Based in Orlando, Florida, she holds a journalism degree from the University of Florida and spent two years working in nonprofit local newsrooms, gaining experience in community-focused reporting. Married to a law enforcement officer, she works hard to highlight the challenges and triumphs of those who serve and protect. Have a news tip? Email her at news@lexipol.com