Holly MatkinHarris County, TX – Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) Deputy Tobias “Tobi” Gray died on April 18 due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The 36-year-old deputy’s concerned colleagues discovered his body inside his home that afternoon, Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said in a Facebook post.
Sheriff Gonzalez said the HCSO is “heartbroken” over their loss.
“We pray for his friends and family and encourage anyone thinking of harming themselves to seek help,” the sheriff wrote.
Deputy Gray, a five-year veteran-of-the-force, was also a beloved husband and a father of two, according to a fundraising page established to help his family in the wake of their loss.
“Tobi passed away on April 18, 2020 after a long battle with depression,” the page read. “Depression takes many forms and takes many lives. Even though Tobi had the support of his family, friends, and professionals, for reasons unknown, Tobi ended his life.”
“No one knows what might have triggered this tragedy, but nonetheless we grieve,” the tribute continued. “The most painful goodbyes are the ones that are never said and never explained.”
Harris County Precinct 4 Constable Mark Herman extended his condolences to Deputy Gray’s loved ones and coworkers in a Facebook post late Tuesday night.
“REST IN PEACE DEPUTY TOBIAS GRAY,” the post read. “No matter what you’re going through, it is important to remember that you are not alone in your fight. Depression and suicide is a real thing that can happen even to the strongest of people.”
Deputy Gray will be laid to rest on April 27.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Harris County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Tobias “Tobi” Gray, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.