Deputy’s quick actions save suicidal man
Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

An 18 year old Camarillo man tried to kill himself by deliberately inhaling carbon monoxide from his vehicle’s exhaust system on Thursday afternoon, while parked in the Wildwood Park parking lot on Avenida de Los Arboles.

Thousand Oaks Police Officer, Jeffrey Stuteville observed a suspicious vehicle parked in the park parking lot. Due to the heavy rains, the trails were closed and this was the only vehicle in the parking lot. The vehicle was backed into a parking stall at the far south end of the parking lot in a location to conceal itself from people or vehicles on the roadway.

Stuteville entered the parking lot and parked next to the vehicle. The vehicle’s engine was on and the windows appeared to be fogged up. This made it difficult for Stuteville to see who was inside. Stuteville noticed a green hose connected to the rear exhaust of the vehicle and placed through the rear passenger window. Fearing this was a suicide attempt; Stuteville pulled on the driver’s door handle and opened the door.

Stuteville observed a male sitting in the driver seat. The male appeared to be in distress from inhaling the carbon monoxide fumes. Stuteville immediately removed the driver and provided assistance until fire and paramedics arrived. The male was later transported to the hospital for further evaluation.

Stuteville’s quick actions saved this young man’s life and prevented what could have been a tragic ending.

Nature of Incident: Deputy’s quick actions save suicidal man
Report Number: 14-2940
Location: Wildwood Park Parking Lot
Date & Time: February 6, 2014 @ 4:52 PMPrepared by: Senior Deputy Timothy Lohman
Media Release Date: February 12, 2014
Follow-Up Contact: Timothy Lohman (805) 371 8362
Approved by: Captain Cory Rubright