Pittston Area school officials confirmed this morning another student has committed suicide, prompting the district attorney to convene a meeting this morning with area law enforcement.

The female sophomore's death is the third suicide of a Luzerne County high school student in a week. A Pittston Area junior killed himself at his Jenkins Township home on Sept. 21 and an eighth grader from Nanticoke Area killed himself at his Nanticoke home on Sept. 18.

Luzerne County District Attorney Stefanie Salavantis met with local and state police, her detectives and the county coroner today regarding the spikes in suicides.

While many students have quickly claimed the suicides were the result of bullying or harassment of the victims, the investigations have not revealed any such evidence, the district attorney said in a statement. However, she noted the investigation continues.

Salavantis cautioned students and parents against jumping to conclusions based on rumors of bullying.

Those attending this morning's meeting included: Luzerne County Coroner William Lisman, Jenkins Township Police Chief Frank Mudlock, Duryea Police Chief Nick Lohman, Avoca Police Chief David Homschek, Nanticoke Police Chief William Schultz, Nanticoke police Det. Robert Lehman,  Pennsylvania State Police Capt. Jay Degnan and state police Lt. Gary Vogue.

Officials plan to meet today with Pittston Area Principal John Haas regarding the two incidents in that district this week, Salavantis said.

Children's Service Center has made a minimum of eight counselors available to students of all grades in the Pittston Area School District in light of recent events. All counselors are currently present in the school district.

In her statement, Salavantis reminded the public that those with concerns on issues such as suicide or mental health may call any of the following agencies, where help is available 24 hours a day/7days per week:

  • Luzerne County Help Line 570-829-1341
  • Northeast Counseling Services 570-735-7590 or 570-455-6385
  • Community Counseling Services 570-552-6000
  • Luzerne County Mental Health and Developmental Services 570-825-9441
  • Children's Service Center 570-825-6425