A man shot himself to death this morning in front of a Birmingham city school.

The man drove up to W.J. Christian K-8 School on Mountain Road, parked his car and shot himself in the vehicle, which was stopped at the front of the school entrance. Birmingham police and Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service were called to the school at about 11:51 a.m. The man was pronounced dead on the scene.

Police say they do not believe students witnessed the incident. The school was placed on lockdown and students ushered to another part of the building. The man is not a student or staffer, police say.

A woman who said she has two nieces at the school said she is a family member of the man who took his life.

Several Birmingham City Schools officials quickly responded to the scene. They are decided whether to dismiss school early. Several counselors also arrived at the school at the request of officials.

The driveway to the entrance is blocked by police tape. School officials entered the building through the gym, which is on the other side of the school.

"It’s tragic somebody would do this in front of a school with children inside,'' said East Precinct commander Capt. Allen Hatcher.

Police are not yet releasing additional details about the man because his family has not been notified.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

Here are warning signs to watch for if you fear someone is suicidal and resources that can help those thinking of harming themselves or who fear a loved one might harm themselves.

WARNING SIGNS

Threatening to hurt or kill oneself or talking about wanting to hurt or kill oneself.

Looking for ways to kill oneself by seeking access to firearms, available pills, or other means.

Talking or writing about death, dying, ''ending the pain'' or suicide.

Feeling hopeless.

Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities - seemingly without thinking.

Feeling trapped - like there's no way out.

Increasing alcohol or drug use.

Withdrawing from friends, family, social support and society.

Feeling anxious, agitated, or unable to sleep or sleeping all the time.

Experiencing significant mood changes.

Seeing no reason for living or having no sense of purpose in life.

Feeling rage or uncontrolled anger or seeking revenge.

HOW TO HELP

Ask the person directly if he or she is having suicidal thoughts, has a plan to do so, and has access to lethal means.

If you think the person might harm him- or herself, do not leave the person alone.

Take seriously all suicide threats and all past suicide attempts, even if he or she minimizes your concerns.

Be direct. Talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide.

Be willing to listen and be non-judgmental. Don't debate whether suicide is right or wrong, or whether feelings are good or bad. Don't lecture on the value of life or whether suicide is viewed by some as a sinful, selfish or angry act. Respect that suicidal feelings are most likely related to ending emotional or psychological pain.

Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support. Take into account other trusted friends, family members or allies who can be a part of a supportive team.

Don't dare him or her to do it.

Don't act shocked. This may translate as criticism or judgment and weaken trust between you.

Don't be sworn to secrecy. Acknowledge that all suicidal risk is to be taken seriously and firmly and gently explain that you are seeking support.

Offer hope that alternatives are available but do not offer glib reassurance.

Take action. Remove means, such as guns or stockpiled pills.

Get help from persons or agencies specializing in crisis intervention and suicide prevention.

Resources in Alabama

Sources: The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and The Alabama Suicide Prevention and Resource Coalition