Tonganoxie mayor Mike Vestal

Tonganoxie ? Tonganoxie’s mayor was in critical condition at Lawrence Memorial Hospital Monday afternoon following a possible suicide attempt.

Mike Vestal was taken to LMH Sunday morning after overdosing on prescription medication, Tonganoxie police Lt. Billy Adcox said Monday.

Someone else at the residence called Leavenworth County dispatchers about 10:45 a.m. Sunday, Adcox said.

“Anytime we have a drug overdose, we investigate it as a possible suicide until we know otherwise,” said police Chief Kenny Carpenter.

A condition update was not available Monday night.

The factors that lead to suicide attempts and deaths vary greatly, said Marcia Epstein of Headquarter Counseling Center. Of the 50 states, Kansas ranked 17 highest for its rate of death by suicide. Most of those deaths could be prevented, she said.

Free, confidential suicide prevention counseling is available 24 hours daily through Headquarters Counseling Center at 785.841.2345. HQCC can also be reached through the national suicide prevention hotlines 1.800.SUICIDE and 1.800.273.TALK