Seinfeld Actor Calls 911 After Shooting Himself in the Head

Daniel von Bargen apparently despondent after learning he needed to undergo a medical procedure that would require amputation of several toes

By Alexis L. Loinaz Feb 22, 2012 11:07 PMTags
Daniel Von Bargen, Lord of IllusionMGM

Daniel von Bargen, the veteran character actor known for recurring roles on TV shows including Seinfeld and Malcolm in the Middle, was hospitalized after allegedly shooting himself in the head and then calling 911 to alert paramedics.

Authorities confirm to E! News that von Bargen made the call from his apartment in Cincinnati on Monday, in what appears to be a suicide attempt.

Von Bargen told the dispatcher that he had a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head and that he needed help. Police and fire were then dispatched to his home, and the actor was transported to Bethesda North Hospital.

In the 911 call, which E! News has obtained, the actor claims he shot himself after learning he needed to undergo a medical procedure that would require doctors to amputate several of his toes.

"I've shot myself in the head and I need help," the 61-year-old actor is heard saying.

When asked if the gunshot was accidental, he responds, "No, I was supposed to go to the hospital today and I didn't want to, so I shot myself but it didn't work."

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Von Bargen, who tells the 911 operator he's diabetic, alleges that doctors were planning amputate "at least a few toes." His two sisters, whom he says live nearby, were expected to help him out that morning.

The actor claims to have shot himself in the temple with a Colt .38 revolver, and when police finally arrive at his home, they can be heard ordering von Bargen not to move his hands.

Von Bargen is best known for playing Mr. Kruger on Seinfeld. He's also appeared on Law & Order and The West Wing.