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Man Dies from Self-Inflicted Gunshot Wound Following Standoff in Kennesaw
A man barricaded himself inside a home in Kennesaw on Monday, leading to a standoff with the Cobb County SWAT team. Unfortunately, authorities reported that the man died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Standoff Ends in Tragedy
The incident unfolded at a residence located in the 4100 block of Kentmere Main, which is part of the Kentmere at Legacy Park neighborhood. Kennesaw police spokesman Officer David Buchanan confirmed that SWAT officers entered the two-story house at approximately 3 p.m. and discovered the lifeless body of the man.
911 Call and Initial Response
Before the confrontation, the 42-year-old made a distressing call to 911, threatening suicide while mentioning his possession of a firearm. Officers were promptly dispatched to the scene where they learned that several children were also inside the residence. With quick thinking, the officers successfully removed the children from harm’s way, but establishing communication with the distressed man proved challenging.
SWAT Intervention and Charges
Recognizing the severity of the situation, Kennesaw officers requested assistance from the Cobb SWAT unit. Subsequently, warrants were secured against the man, charging him with reckless conduct and second-degree cruelty to children, according to Buchanan.
Support and Acknowledgment
Kennesaw police Chief Bill Westenberger empathetically expressed condolences, stating, “While we may never understand what led to this tragic circumstance, it is important to remember there are surviving family members and friends.” He urged the community to keep the survivors in their thoughts and prayers, expressing gratitude towards the Cobb County Police Department and Kennesaw/Acworth 911 for their assistance during the distressing incident.
Minimal Force, Property Damage
During the standoff, it is important to note that police did not discharge any weapons. However, the encounter resulted in significant damage to the front door of the four-bedroom home.
Return to Normalcy
After the resolution of the situation, the Kentmere subdivision, which belongs to the larger Legacy Park community spanning 117 acres, reopened at 3:30 p.m.
Accessible Help
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, there is help available. Please consider reaching out to the resources provided here or calling/texting/chatting with 988lifeline.org.
