Truckers park under bridge to prevent suicide attempt
Truck drivers in the US helped Michigan state police officers deter a suicidal man who was threatening to jump from a bridge onto a motorway. The incident happened on the morning of Tuesday 24th April (local time). The incredible photos show the strategic response, which has been used before. Michigan State Police Lt. Mike Shaw told WJBK that they had been using the tactic since he started with the department 23 years ago.
This photo does show the work troopers and local officers do to serve the public. But also in that photo is a man struggling with the decision to take his own life. Please remember help is available through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. pic.twitter.com/RBAlCIXT1o
— MSP Metro Detroit (@mspmetrodet) April 24, 2018
“We have kept it quiet for that long, but social media and cellphones kind of changes that,” he added.
One of the drivers involved, Chris Harrison, stated that he and some other truck drivers just happened to be leading the traffic when police closed off the road.
Michigan State Police shared the photo from Tuesday’s rescue on Twitter in an effort to call attention to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
“This photo does show the work troopers and local officers do to serve the public,” the department wrote. “But also in that photo is a man struggling with the decision to take his own life.”
It appears that the tactic was successful, as after two hours of negotiation the man agreed to leave the bridge and seek help. We wish him well and feel it is important to take this opportunity to say:
If you are feeling isolated, desperate, or uncertain about anything in your life, trained volunteers at The Samaritans are available 24/7 by phone on 116 123 (UK), or by email: [email protected]