A child in DJJ custody died in a hospital after suicide attempt in the Midlands

A child being held at the Department of Juvenile Justice facility on Broad River Road has died.

A 16-year-old boy attempted suicide at 10:30 p.m. on Monday at the Willow Lane Infirmary. A nurse administered CPR until an ambulance arrived, and he was taken to the hospital, the department confirmed.

He died Wednesday afternoon, according to a DJJ news release.

“This is a heartbreaking day, and we send our prayers and condolences to the youth’s family and loved ones,” said Executive Director Eden Hendrick. “DJJ is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all youth entrusted to our care, and we will continue to fully investigate this tragic incident.”

Michelle Foster, the department’s director of communications, said that no others were harmed.

No further details were available.

Richland County Coroner Naida Rutherford has identified the teen and spoke with his family, according to a news release. They donated both his kidneys and his liver.

Counselors will be available to DJJ employees at Willow Lane Chapel on Thursday morning, according to a department news release.

The complex on Broad River Road is the department’s long-term commitment facility.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, the National Suicide Prevention line number is 988.

This story was originally published December 6, 2023 at 11:30 AM.

Alexa Jurado

The State

Alexa Jurado is a news reporter for The State covering Lexington County and Richland County schools. She previously wrote about the University of South Carolina and contributes to this coverage. A Chicago suburbs native, Alexa graduated from Marquette University and previously wrote for publications in Illinois and Wisconsin. Her work has been recognized by the Society of Professional Journalists, the Milwaukee Press Club and the South Carolina Press Association.