Editor’s note: This article discusses suicide. If you or someone you know needs mental health resources and support, call, text or chat with the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or visit 988lifeline.org 24/7 access to free and confidential services.
The North Kingstown Police Department announced the March 4 death of a newly hired officer.
“It is with great sadness that the North Kingstown Police Department announces the passing of Officer Brittany Dougall, who tragically took her own life after battling mental illness,” the North Kingstown Police Department posted on Facebook on Saturday, March 7.
Dougal is a 29-year-old Cranston resident who graduated second in his class from the Rhode Island Police Training Academy on December 19, 2025. She was sworn in as a North Kingstown police officer on Dec. 22, 2025, and began a field training evaluation program, the police department said.
“In the short time she has served our department, her field training officer has recognized her commitment and commitment to a successful career,” the police department said.
“Our department mourns this loss. Brittany’s passing is deeply saddened by her family, friends, fellow Academy students and all of her brothers and sisters in law enforcement,” the Police Department said.
According to her obituary, Dougal was born in Beverly, Massachusetts and raised in Danvers, Massachusetts. She graduated from Framingham State University, where she played softball.
Prior to joining the North Kingstown Police Department, Dougal worked as a security guard at McLean Hospital in Belmont, Massachusetts, and later at Massachusetts General Hospital.
Survivors include her parents, Steven Dougal and Tina Dougal of Danvers, her twin sister and her brother.
Officer Brittany Dougal passed away on March 4.
Many police departments in the area expressed condolences for Dougal.
The North Kingstown Police Department included the following information in its post under the heading “Mental Health Issues”:
“There is a person behind every badge and we must continue to work hard to ensure that no officer feels they have to face mental health issues alone.”
“To our fellow police officers and first responders: You are never alone, and asking for help is a sign of strength.”
“If you or someone you know is struggling, there is help available.”
“The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be reached by dialing or texting 988, or visiting 988lifeline.org.”
“During this extremely difficult time, we ask that our community keep Officer Dougal’s loved ones in their thoughts and prayers as we remember her service and honor her memory,” the Police Department said.
“Rest in peace, Officer Dougal.”
This article originally appeared in the Providence Journal: North Kingstown police officer Brittany Dougal, 29, died last week
