The family of a 23-year-old woman who tragically took her own life while waiting for a court appearance in Detroit are desperate for answers.
Chelsea Heugel, who was being held at the 36th District Court, tragically attempted suicide while in custody. Sadly, she was later pronounced dead at a hospital, as confirmed by her mother, Rebecca Fant, in an interview with WXYZ.
Fant informed the court about her daughter’s mental health diagnoses, which included bipolar disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, and high-level ADHD. Heugel was taken into custody on charges of operating a stolen vehicle and fleeing police.
According to Fant, her daughter was not being monitored by the guards at the 36th District Court when she attempted to take her own life. Heugel had been transferred from the Wayne County Jail to the court for her arraignment.
Fant expressed her frustration and grief over the tragic loss of a mother to three children. She emphasized the impact of someone’s failure to fulfill their responsibilities, resulting in the children growing up without their mother.
Fant also shared the heartbreaking reality that her five other children are now without their sister, and they struggle to comprehend the situation. She highlighted the significance of just one person’s proper execution of their job, which could have made a significant difference in preventing this devastating outcome.
Chief Judge McConico, who presides over the court, stated in an email to The Independent that there were no mental health concerns known about the individual.
The security officers of the court diligently monitored her, conducting checks every 15 to 20 minutes. During these checks, the officers engaged in conversation with her and visually assessed her condition.
“This incident has had a profound impact on all of us at our court. We are deeply saddened by this tragedy, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the individual during this extremely challenging period,” expressed Judge McConico.
Heugel’s GoFundMe campaign has received $1,895 in donations, which is currently 9.5% of the $20,000 goal.