Two beloved sheriff’s deputies in Texas tragically died of apparent suicides within days of each other, police have confirmed.
Harris County Deputy Sheriff Christina Kohler, 37, died on March 13 in Houston after being reported missing a day earlier.
Houston police are investigating her death as an apparent suicide and awaiting the results of an autopsy for confirmation.
Just three days later, former Harris County Deputy Sheriff Maria Vasquez, 42, also died by apparently taking her own life in Montgomery, about an hour outside of Houston.
Vasquez had left the sheriff’s office in December.
No other information was immediately available.
‘Heaven has gained two beautiful angels,’ the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HSCO) Community Engagement Division posted on Facebook Monday featuring a photo of the two deputies.
‘May their memory be a blessing, inspiring strength and comfort to their friends, family and coworkers during this challenging time.’
Texas police are investigating the tragic deaths of two beloved sheriff’s deputies. Harris County Deputy Sheriff Christina Kohler, 37, died on March 13, while Deputy Sheriff Maria Vasquez passed away within days of Kohler’s death
Kohler, who joined the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) in 2018, and most recently worked as a court bailiff, went missing on March 12
Kohler joined the Harris County Sheriff’s Office in 2018 and most recently worked as a court bailiff. She went missing on March 12, according to a statement from the Texas Center for the Missing.
The alert emphasized that her disappearance posed ‘a credible threat to her own health and safety.’
‘Her name, her life, absolutely deserves to be remembered for her commitment to our profession,’ HCSO Constable Mark Herman wrote in a heartfelt tribute to Kohler on Facebook.
The pair’s deaths sparked discussion about those grappling with their mental health within the police force.
‘Please, if you are struggling, reach out to someone, anyone. You are needed and you matter, even when you feel your lowest,’ wrote HCSO Constable Sherman Eagleton.
‘Our brothers and sisters in blue, take care of each other. Don’t carry the burden alone, your family is here for you.’
With nearly 5,100 employees and 200 volunteers, the HCSO is the largest sheriff’s office in Texas and the third-largest in the US.
The community has been mourning both losses, with many still in shock by the timing of each.
The HCSO said in a statement on Tuesday that it is ‘offering mental health and peer support services to Deputy Kohler’s colleagues as they grieve her tragic loss.’
Kohler’s death sparked a discussion about mental health awareness within the police force
Kohler’s colleagues described her as a great person to be around and a diligent police officer
Kohler’s loved ones will gather to celebrate her life on Wednesday for a visitation and for her funeral on Thursday.
Her friends and colleagues shared fond memories of the deputy sheriff on her memorial website.
‘Christina, you were a beautiful, funny, and sweet person…You are loved by so many and I hope you knew that. I’ll miss you forever my friend,’ one wrote.
Others praised Kohler for being an outstanding mother.
‘She was a great mom, always made sure her kids were safe, even if she would travel,’ another said.
‘Kohler was one of us. Funny, quick on her toes, and always willing to face a challenge head on. She will be missed,’ added a third, who posted a photo of her with fellow officers.
