Suicide in the law enforcement community has become an increasing problem over recent years. One Florida family is sadly figuring out their way forward after being rocked by not one loss, but two.
Clayton Osteen and Victoria Pacheco were both sheriff's deputies working out of the St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office. Clayton, who previously served in the US Marine Corps, was just 24 years old. He was hospitalized after attempting suicide on New Year's Eve. Two days later, the Florida native and former SWAT team member was taken off life support.
Another two days later, Victoria also died by suicide at 23 years old. Outside of her work in law enforcement, she was known to be a passionate artist. The couple seemed happier than ever, especially after welcoming son Jayce just a month before their deaths.
Note: If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can always reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 1-800-273-8255. They are available 24/7 by phone or online chat.
Naturally, the families of Clayton and Victoria are devastated they are both gone. They are also confused as to how things came to this point.
"Clayton and Victoria were joy-filled, first-time parents excited about their growing family, enamored with their baby Jayce, and so in love with each other," a GoFundMe benefiting the family of the two reads.
"Tragically, for reasons completely unknown and totally out of character, Clayton took his own life December 31st, 2021. Reeling from the shock of loss, Victoria took her own life two days later."
A close family member will be adopting baby Jayce. The GoFundMe campaign aims to help with that process and support Jayce during this difficult time.
Kelly Ridle, who organized the GoFundMe, shared a Facebook status about these difficult losses. She considered Clayton, a friend of her sons, as another one of her boys.
"Our hearts ached for all, but especially baby Jayce who would never know what an awesome, hilarious, thoughtful guy his dad was. Or how much Clayton adored and loved both Jayce and his mommy," she said of learning the difficult news.
"Then the unthinkable happened. Two days later Bob called me with the news that Clayton's love, Jayce's sweet mommy Victoria, left us in the same manner to be with Clayton."
"The grief is deep and painful. Parents shouldn't have to bury their children. Brothers and best friends should be called upon for support. Babies should grow up surrounded by the love of their parents. But know my friends, despite this horrendous situation, I've witnessed more grace, love, compassion, answered prayers, and even what feels like a few miracles this week than I could imagine even existed among those left behind. We are forever bonded to one another and Jayce," she continued.
"It takes a village to raise a child. Few understand that as deeply as my fellow teachers. Clayton and Victoria spent their shortened careers serving our community and country. Their families will need support raising Jayce."
Sheriff Ken J. Mascara commented on how the loss has affected him and the rest of the officers who worked alongside both Clayton and Victoria.
"As sheriff, I saw these two deputies as young, ambitious, and a great compliment to my already amazing group of professionals. To the general public, and sometimes even myself, it's easy to view law enforcement as superhuman … but let's not forget that they're human just like us," he shared in a statement.
"Law enforcement deal with not only the day-to-day stress we all face but also the stress of those whom they serve in our community, which can sometimes be very challenging.
"While it is impossible for us to fully comprehend the private circumstances leading up to this devastating loss, we pray that this tragedy becomes a catalyst for change, a catalyst to help ease the stigma surrounding mental well-being and normalize the conversation about the challenges so many of us face on a regular basis."
Both Clayton and Victoria will be laid to rest together on January 8. Anyone looking to support the family during this time is encouraged to donate to the GoFundMe page or via the St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office and adding "Jayce Osteen" in notes.
