Sheriff’s Office Reviewing Two Inmate Suicide Attempts

WICHITA, Kan. — The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office is reviewing two inmate suicide attempts that occurred Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026, at the Sedgwick County Adult Detention Facility. Facility video was used to determine the approximate time each attempt began.

At approximately 4:12 p.m., a 20-year-old male inmate attempted suicide by self-asphyxiation. Detention and on-site medical staff discovered the inmate at approximately 4:18 p.m. and immediately provided emergency medical care. Sedgwick County EMS and the Wichita Fire Department also responded. EMS transported the inmate to an area hospital in serious condition. He was later discharged and returned to the Adult Detention Facility.

The inmate had recently returned to the facility after receiving mental health treatment at another secure facility. At the time of the incident, staff were preparing to place him in restrictive housing due to behavioral concerns. He was not on suicide watch, and prior documentation did not indicate circumstances requiring that level of observation.

At approximately 4:36 p.m., a 42-year-old female inmate attempted suicide by self-asphyxiation. Detention and on-site medical staff discovered the inmate at approximately 4:41 p.m. and immediately provided emergency medical care. Sedgwick County EMS and the Wichita Fire Department also responded. EMS transported the inmate to an area hospital in critical condition, where she remains.

The inmate was on a mental health watch requiring documented checks every 30 minutes. Detention staff completed the required check at approximately 4:16 p.m. and spoke with the inmate during that check. Staff discovered her approximately 25 minutes later, before her next required 30-minute check. She had previously been placed on suicide watch but was not on suicide watch at the time of the incident. Her family has been notified.

The Sheriff’s Office is reviewing both incidents in accordance with standard procedures following serious events at the Adult Detention Facility, including staff response and applicable procedures.

Because these incidents involve confidential medical and mental health information, no additional details will be released.

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