Suicide in Montreal Subway System: Characteristics of the Victims, Antecedents, and Implications for Prevention

This study did a systematic analysis of coroner’s office investigations of the 129 suicides in the MontrŽal Metro from 1986-1996. 81% of victims had expressed prior suicidal intention, 66% had previously attempted suicide, & 9% had attempted suicide in the metro. 155 of the victims had serious mental health problems, most frequently depression. 73% had had inpatient psychiatric treatment & at the time of death, 27% resided in a mental health treatment institution. Recent adverse life events included failed relationships, work problems, & family difficulties. (22 refs.)