`SUDDENLY SUSAN' STAR'S SUICIDE: COPYCATS FEARED

`SUDDENLY SUSAN' STAR'S SUICIDE: COPYCATS FEARED

OMAHA, Neb. (Wireless Flash) -- Suicide experts fear the recent death of actor David Strickland may cause a rash of "copycat" suicides. Strickland, best known for his role as music critic "Todd" on "Suddenly Susan," was found hanging from a bedsheet in a Las Vegas motel on Monday, and police believe he committed suicide. Lisa Batenhorst of the Boys Town National Hotline says although Strickland wasn't one of Hollywood's best-known stars, media coverage of his death could inspire others to commit suicide. She says because celebrity suicides are so high-profile, they often make some people think that suicide is the best way to deal with problems. The Boys Town Hotline will be beefing up its efforts to counsel suicidal folks over the next few days, and is expecting to receive more than its usual 400 calls per day. The number is 1-800-448-3000.

CONTACT: Lisa Batenhorst, ***1/2; Omaha, NE; (402) 498-3103; Marisa McGrath (Strickland's publicist); LA; (310) 550-7776, ext. 316