INDIANAPOLIS -- A call for help to police from a family on Indianapolis' northeast side Sunday ended with a trooper committing suicide.

Investigators said Jeffrey Etheridge, 43, went to talk to his former girlfriend in the 12000 block of Admiral Pointe Circle Sunday afternoon.

The girlfriend was not home at the time. Authorities said the couple had a history of problems.

Indianapolis Metro police said Etheridge shot himself with his state-issued gun in a garage after they told him to put his hands up.

"I did not hear any reports of him using that weapon to threaten anyone inside," said IMPD Sgt. Matt Mount. "He was trying to get in the house and they wouldn't open the door and he wouldn't leave."

The people who were in the home called 911.

Etheridge worked for ISP for 20 years. A national report said that more police die from suicide than in the line of duty. Investigators said they hope officers having difficulties will get the help that is available.