NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WJAR) — Police departments across the region are mourning the loss of a North Kingstown officer whose career was cut short by tragedy just months after it began.
Officer Brittany Dougal died by suicide following a significant police response to her home in Cranston on March 4, according to officials.
The North Kingstown Police Department, which announced her death Saturday, stated that Dougal had been battling mental illness.
Dougal was a standout recruit, recognized as one of the top officers in her class.
She had been out of the police academy for only three months.
The incident on Bartlett Avenue marks the second time in a week that a crisis call in the area has ended in tragedy, highlighting the complex nature of such responses.
“It’s a very dynamic, and potentially unpredictable and dangerous situation, for sure,” said Colonel Michael Correia, president of the Rhode Island Police Chiefs’ Association. “It demands a response and it demands a trained response.”
Correia, who has overseen numerous responses to mental health crises involving weapons, said modern police tactics have evolved to focus on the root cause of an incident.
“Police officers today are keenly aware that mental health crises can at times look like a crime,” Correia said. “But yet the root of this is a mental health crisis.”
The evolution of training isn’t just focused on the public; it also addresses the mental well-being of those behind the badge.
Correia noted that many departments have built stronger relationships with mental health professionals to ensure officers have access to support.
“The cognizance of police officers and police departments and police chiefs’ understanding mental health within their own organizations has increased,” he said.
While Dougal’s tenure with the North Kingstown Police Department was brief, leadership said she showed true promise for a successful career.
The department is reminding officers that they are not alone, even in the most difficult times.
For those facing a crisis, Correia offered a plea for patience.
“Try to take a deep breath, and I think ultimately don’t make a permanent decision over something that can be worked on,” Correia said. “You have a problem. Don’t make a permanent decision to affect that.”
If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is available. You can call or text the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.