Chaplain Discusses Mental Toll On First Responders After Broken Arrow Murder/Suicide

The victims of a murder-suicide in Broken Arrow were between one and 13 years old according to police.

Investigators believe the mom and dad killed their six young children and then killed themselves. Broken Arrow police and fire Chaplain Scott Keele said he spent Thursday night and Friday comforting their first responders and wants to put mental health at the forefront. Keele said for many this event brings up memories of the Bever murders in 2015.

"I went back by the scene to check in one of the things this did for sure is a trigger because of the Bever family 7 years ago so our fire guys and police some on that scene especially were reliving some of it," said Keele.

Chaplain Keele says he got together with about 30 firefighters Thursday night to debrief and pray and will continue providing support.

Broken Arrow Police are encouraging anyone who is having a difficult time because of this event to call the Mental Health Association (918)-585-1213.

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If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or suicidal crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

For more information about mental health care resources and support, The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine can be reached Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. ET, at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or email info@nami.org