Grand Jury Takes No Action Against Officers in Teen’s Death

LONGVIEW — The Gregg County grand jury has decided not to take any action against the Longview officers in a teens shooting death. the Grand Jury declined to take action against the officers in the death of Kristina Coignard, 17, based upon finding that the use of deadly force was authorized under state law. The panel reach the decision after reviewing the evidence, which includes videotape from the lobby surveillance camera and the Texas Ranger who conducted the investigation.

According to the police, on Thursday, January 22, at 6:28 p.m., Coignard entered the police station and picked up the after-hours phone, called public safety communications and asked for help. When asked what she needed, she refused to tell the operator what her problem was. Police officers were dispatched to the lobby a short time later. When Officer Glenn Derr arrived, Coignard indicated to him she had a gun. According to police, the words “I have a gun,” were written on her hand. This resulted in a physical confrontation when Officer Derr attempted to secure Coignard.

During the physical confrontation, Officer Derr determined she had a large butcher knife, which she was attempting to pull out of her waist band. According to the video, Officer Derr was able to to get away from Coignard. At this time, Officer Gene Duffie entered the lobby and drew his taser. When a third officer, identified as Officer Grace Bagley, entered the lobby, she saw Coginard had a knife. As Coignard charged Officer Derr with the knife in a threatening manner, Officer Duffie shot his taser at Coignard, but it had no affect on the teen. Officer Derr then discharged his gun three times and Officer Bagley fired her gun twice.

Police found a suicide note on the girl. The note reads:

“1.22.14

“This is no one’s fault but my own. I’ve tried getting help, but it never worked. Things would seem to get better, just to get twice as bad. My mental health is a joke; I don’t deserve to live. You will all be much better off without me. As cliche’ as that sounds, I know it’s true. You all tried so hard to help me…I’m not worth it. I hate myself, every second of every day. Anyone who doesn’t was just fooled into thinking I’m an actual decent human being. I’m not completely sure what’s out there, but I have an idea and I’m not scared. I will be in a better place. I’m so sorry for this and everything else. I deserve to die. I’m mentally ill and so by removing myself from society, I’m doing everyone a favor. This is the right choice. I can’t take it anymore. I’m sorry and I love all of you.

“~ Kristiana Joy Coignard”

The family of Coignard held a press conference with their attorney, Tim Maloney, Monday, February 9, in San Antonio. During the press conference, the family told media members they wanted to bring awareness to mental illness. Coignard was on medication at the time of the shooting and was seeking treatment, according to her parents. She also had “episodes” in the past. All three officers have since returned to the force.