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Avondale proclaims National Suicide Prevention Month; resident credits first responders with saving his life
Summary
The Avondale City Council on Sept. 8 proclaimed September as National Suicide Prevention Month. A resident, Craig Buckland, described a May 19 suicide attempt and thanked Avondale police, fire and 9-1-1 dispatchers for life‑saving actions.
Mayor Pineda and the Avondale City Council proclaimed September 2025 as National Suicide Prevention and Action Month during the Sept. 8 council meeting and heard a personal testimony from a resident who credited first responders with saving his life.
Edith (Assistant Director, Neighborhood and Family Services) introduced community partners and the proclamation, saying the city is committed to “fostering a community where conversations about mental health are encouraged, stigma is reduced, and individuals feel supported and connected.” The proclamation directs city staff to share resources with employees and encourages residents to use crisis services including the 988 lifeline and 988lifeline.org.
Craig Buckland told the council that on May 19 he attempted suicide and that Avondale Police and Fire Department crews and 9-1-1 dispatchers intervened. “On the morning of 05/19/2025, I attempted suicide,” Buckland said. He described the response timeline using his home security footage and said the first officer arrived within three minutes and others arrived in under four minutes. Buckland said the bullet “traveled upward under my chin and exited between my eyes,” that medical staff and first responders helped save his life, and that he and his family were grateful. He identified specific responders by name and thanked Police Chief Espinosa and Fire Chief Rooney for departmental leadership.
Kathy Villa of Southwest Behavioral Health Services accepted the proclamation on behalf of the agency and thanked the council. Edith said the city’s Neighborhood and Family Services Department and Arizona Complete Health Avondale Resource Center will be sources for residents seeking support, and staff will distribute an internal memo outlining employee resources.
Council members offered public praise for Buckland’s decision to share his experience. Councilmember Garcia, who identified herself as a first responder, said Buckland’s story “could save a life.” Mayor Pineda said the council and staff will follow up with outreach materials and that a video from the mayor discussing the month will be released.
The council did not take formal action beyond reading and supporting the proclamation. The city reiterated that residents in crisis can call or text 988 for immediate, confidential help.
