Another Officer Dies In Aftermath Of Riot At Nation’s Capitol

WASHINGTON, DC — A second police officer who responded to the Jan. 6 riots at the U.S. Capitol has died from suicide, according to reports.

Acting D.C. Police Chief Robert J. Contee announced the death of D.C. police Officer Jeffrey Smith during a closed session of the House Appropriations Committee on Tuesday evening. On Jan. 10, it was revealed that Capitol Police Officer Howard Liebengood, 51, also had died by suicide, according to his family.

A third officer, Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick, died from injuries sustained when he was attacked by rioters as they tried to break into the Capitol.

“We honor the service and sacrifices of officers Brian Sicknick, Howard Liebengood, and Jeffrey Smith, and offer condolences to all the grieving families,” Contee said during the committee meeting. "The costs for this insurrection — both human and monetary — will be steep."

According to WUSA, Contee said 65 D.C. police officers were injured in the attack on the Capitol, sustaining scratches, bruises and Mace-induced injuries.

"We are reeling from the death of officer Liebengood," United States Capitol Police Union Chairman Gus Papathanasiou said in a statement Jan. 10. "Every Capitol police officer puts the security of others before their own safety and Officer Liebengood was an example of the selfless service that is the hallmark of USCP."

If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255). You also can text a crisis counselor by messaging the Crisis Text Line at 741741 or chat online.

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