Whitley deputy successfully talks suicidal teen out of tree stand

A Whitley County Sheriff’s deputy spent more than two hours Saturday night to talk down a teenage girl who was threatening suicide.

According to Sheriff Colan Harrell, Deputy James Fox was one of multiple law enforcement and emergency personnel who responded to a call from Whitley County E911 that the 17-year-old had left a residence and intended to harm herself.

The teen was later found in a tree stand in the Savoy community near Williamsburg.

Harrell said the girl reportedly had a .32 caliber handgun and multiple knives in her possession.

“Deputy Fox went to the girl and from the ground spoke to her for approximately two hours,” Harrell said.

“Risking his own safety, Deputy Fox stayed near the tree stand, built a rapport with the teenager and kept her calm,” Harrell added. “She eventually descended from the tree stand but had in her possession a large hunting-style knife.”

Harrell said the teen attempted to climb back into the tree stand. However, before she could do so, Fox used his Taser to stop her.

Harrell said no firearm was found, but multiple knives and a set of brass knuckles were located.

“They weren’t pocket knives,” Harrell said. “They were all good sized knives.”

Harrell said the teen was taken to be examined.

“We will go from there,” Harrell said when asked whether the girl will face any criminal charges.

Harrell offered his thanks to Williamsburg Police Sergeant Brandon White and officers David Rowe and Elijah Hunter, Kentucky State Police Sergeant Les Moses and Trooper Matt Ridner, Whitley County Emergency Management Director Danny Moses, members of Whitley County EMS and Whitley County E911 dispatchers for their assistance.