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Drake Middle School teacher accused of relationship with student committed suicide, coroner says

Drake Middle School teacher accused of relationship with student committed suicide, coroner says
Posted at 12:43 PM, May 12, 2017
and last updated 2017-05-12 23:38:58-04

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Colo. — Just days after police found a teacher dead after reports surfaced of a possible relationship with a student, the Jefferson County Coroner confirmed Drake Middle School teacher Gretchen Krohnfeldt took her own life. 

A preliminary report confirmed Krohnfeldt shot herself in the head a day after reports surfaced suggesting she had been involved in a relationship with a student in the Jefferson County Public Schools district.

According to Arvada Police Department officials, the relationship began whilst the student attended Drake Middle School, but the student advanced onto high school in Arvada. 

An Arvada school resource officer was the first to learn about the possible relationship, first learning it was between a male student and a female staffer. 

Diana Wilson, Jefferson County Public Schools spokesperson, said they immediately placed Krohnfeldt on administrative leave on Monday after reports surfaced. Police found her dead days later in her home. 

“We will continue to investigate this matter and coordinate our efforts with law enforcement. This investigation is in its infancy and the known facts are very limited,” Wilson said in a statement. “Our main focus is supporting our staff and students that have been deeply impacted by this tragedy.”

The Arvada Police Department and the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office are continuing to investigate the alleged relationship together. They have yet to release additional details to the public.

Denver7 is continuing to dig into this story and will update it with additional details when they become available. 

MORE: Learn more from Denver7's original coverage here.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, help and hope are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or the Colorado Crisis and Support Line at 1-844-493-TALK (8255).