The death of popular Irmo, South Carolina dentist Jim Raman is being investigated as a suicide, multiple sources familiar with the ongoing law enforcement inquiry told this news outlet.
Specifically, detectives believe Raman shot himself in the garage of his Lexington County home sometime earlier this week.
It is not immediately clear what may have prompted the 42-year-old dentist to take his life.
Irmo Smiles, the dental practice Raman ran with his wife – Misti Raman – issued a statement this week in response to news of his passing.
Irmo Smiles has suffered a tragic loss this week. It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dr. Jim Raman. As our staff and the family prepare for Dr. Raman’s celebration of life, please join us in praying for peace and comfort during this difficult time. We will be working to reschedule Dr. Misti Raman’s patients and we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you. Your patience is greatly appreciated as we give Dr. Misti Raman time to grieve the loss of her loving husband.
The Ramans have two young children. They achieved a degree of national fame five years ago when they appeared together as contestants on the twenty-fifth season of CBS’ Amazing Race, finishing in second place.
Lexington County sheriff’s deputies and the office of Lexington County coroner Margaret Fisher have declined to provide details of the investigation into Jim Raman’s death – except to say nothing “suspicious or criminal” is associated with the case.
“Out of compassion and respect for family my office will not comment on it,” Fisher told local television station WIS-TV 10 (NBC – Columbia, S.C.).
No arrests have been made, and no suspects are being sought in connection with the incident.
Obviously stories like this are very difficult to cover. On the one hand people close to the situation are grieving and do not want to see details of their loss plastered all over the internet. On the other hand, the public does have a right to be informed as to the result of taxpayer-funded investigations.
Also, public officials need to be consistent in the information they provide. The same standards need to be applied to all cases.
It is a difficult line to walk, in other words.
This news outlet extends our prayers to Misti Raman, her children and all of the friends and family of Jim Raman. Also, we would encourage anyone who is considering taking their own life to call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by clicking 1-800-273-TALK.
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