Editor’s note: This article discusses suicide. Free, confidential support is available by calling or texting 988.

Prince George’s County police say their investigation remains open after a man was found dead Sunday along D’Arcy Road in Westphalia, prompting community concerns and meetings between residents and county officials. Police said Monday that they had found no indication of foul play. (NBC4 Washington)

Officers were dispatched at approximately 7:55 a.m. on September 20, and the man was pronounced dead at the scene, according to a police statement reported by The Washington Informer. Detectives began interviewing witnesses and examining evidence, and the man’s body was transported for an autopsy.

On Monday, the Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner ruled the death a suicide. NBC4 Washington reported that the examination found no other signs of trauma.

The man’s name has not been publicly released. According to FOX 5 DC, police said they would not release his identity because of the nature of the incident.

Investigative work continues

In a Monday statement quoted by NBC4, police said the medical examiner’s ruling would not end their work. Detectives were continuing to examine evidence and speak with people who knew the man to better understand the circumstances surrounding his death.

FOX 5 also reported that toxicology results were pending. Anyone with information relevant to the investigation is asked to contact detectives at 301-516-2512.

Officials address community concerns

County Executive Aisha Braveboy and Police Chief George Nader participated in a virtual community meeting Sunday to answer questions and address residents’ concerns, NBC4 reported. Police acknowledged that the discovery had been distressing both for people who passed the scene and for those who learned about it later.

County leaders and residents gathered again Monday. Braveboy said officials wanted to provide information while respecting the grief of the man’s family and friends, according to NBC4’s account of her remarks.

“We know that the community needs and deserves the truth,” Braveboy said.

County Councilmember Wala Blegay also acknowledged residents’ distress. In a statement reported by The Washington Informer, she said the circumstances of the Black man’s death had raised fears connected to the country’s history of racial violence. She called for a thorough investigation and transparency as the facts developed.

“Our community deserves answers, compassion, and support during this difficult time,” Blegay said in the statement.

Support is available

Residents experiencing distress after witnessing the incident or learning about it can call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The service offers free, confidential support around the clock. People do not need to be experiencing suicidal thoughts to reach out; support is also available for emotional distress or concerns about someone else.

This report is based on attributed reporting from NBC4 Washington, FOX 5 DC and The Washington Informer. The Gazette has not independently reviewed the medical examiner’s report.