VA psychiatrist tells someone to commit suicide

A Department of Veterans Affairs psychiatrist is in hot water for comments he made on Facebook, suggesting that a gun-rights supporter “off” himself.

Dr. Gregg Gorton was responding to a post that came through his Facebook page by an apparent gun-rights supporter, according to images posted to the website Imgur.

“I am all for gun control,” the user wrote. “If there is a gun in the room, I want to be in control of it.”

Gorton replied: “Off yourself, please.”

The user continues his exchange by saying, “Wow Mr. Gorton is that what you say to pro-gun Veterans at the VA? I wonder if your employer knows you are advocating suicide in an online forum. “

Dr. Gorton has worked for The Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Philadelphia for 11 years. The hospital has reportedly apologized to veterans and called the post “unacceptable.” Gorton’s job status is currently under review, the Associated Press reports.

It’s just one of those moments you’d rather take back in your life,” Gorton told The AP. “I’ve worked 30 years to treat psychiatric patients. I teach about suicide prevention. … That’s not me.”

He said his comment was meant to be sarcastic. The post in question has since been deleted.

“The post was totally inappropriate and does not convey our commitment to veterans. We are taking steps immediately to address the situation,” the VA told the Washington Times.