ClarksvilleNow.com Reporting
news@clarksvillenow.com
CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – Officers with the Clarksville Police Department were ambushed early Thursday morning after responding to a call regarding a suicidal man in the area of Parade Dr. and Firebreak Dr.
According to Officer Natalie Hall, the man, later identified as 29-year-old Jared Ballis, called 911 and said he was “suicidal and would kill anyone who attempted to stop him.” As officers arrived on the area around 12:48 a.m., it appeared Ballis had parked his vehicle in a location for an ambush as he fired at least two rounds that struck a patrol vehicle.
The officers took cover and set up a perimeter at the scene. At 2:18 a.m., Ballis was discovered nearby with a fatal self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. A .223 assault rifle and a 45 caliber pistol were also found, and police said the gunshot wound came from the assault rifle.
Officers also found a 7.62mm SKS rifle in his vehicle.
Police said Ballis was previously in the Army.
Photos by CPD
SUICIDE PREVENTION INFO
Several agencies offer crisis support hotlines and websites. If you or someone you know needs help, the following resources are available:
The Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services offers a crisis hotline that offers support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week 1-855-CRISIS-1.
The United States Department of Veterans Affairs offers a crisis line that also offers support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-273-8255, VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat or send a text to 838255.
Other online resources from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs are offered at www.MakeTheConnection.net and SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.