Just a month after the city of Baltimore’s unprecedented decision to shell out $6.4 million to the family of Freddie Gray, his mother, Gloria Darden reportedly tried to take her own life. CBS Baltimore reports that Darden was taken in for psychiatric evaluation after a suicide attempt on Wednesday (Oct. 21). She was taken to a local hospital where she was treated for “superficial injuries” that did require surgery or stitches.
On April 12, a chase ensued after Gray ran when he was was approached by three officers on bicycles. Upon apprehending him, officers allegedly procured a pocket knife from the 25-year-old and arrested him for weapon possession. Approximately one hour later, an ambulance was called for Gray who had been reported as unconscious at the police station. Witnesses of the arrest say the officers used unnecessary force on Gray, who was screaming for an inhaler for his asthma. He was also placed in shackles and not given a seatbelt during his ride in the police van. He underwent surgery for three broken vertebrae in his neck, and died one week later.
The $6.4 million settlement was announced on Sept. 8. According to Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings Blake, the ruling was proposed “because it is in the best interest of the city, and avoids costly and protracted litigation that would only make it more difficult for our city to heal and potentially cost taxpayers many millions more in damages.” Darden is scheduled to receive $5.36 of the total payout.
According to The Washington Post, the lawyer for Gray’s family, Billy Murphy, released a statement regarding Darden’s unfortunate suicide attempt:
“Because of an improper invasion of her privacy, Ms. Darden is being thrust into the national spotlight about an extraordinarily personal matter while she is still mourning the loss of her son. I saw her today and I can assure you that this kind of publicity is not at all helpful. We strongly urge the media to show restraint. The family asks that you continue to pray for her and for them.”
Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to Gray’s family.