Staff report
Bloomington, Ind. – July 7, 2023
A deputy from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department rescued a man hanging from an overpass over I-69 Sunday near Bloomington, Indiana, according to the MCSO.
A welfare check on a man reported to be hanging from the bridge by his hand was then initiated around 11:25 a.m. on Sunday, July 2, 2023, when callers who witnessed the incident called 911.
The first deputy to arrive at the scene encountered a distressed male, visibly crying and in distress. The deputy positioned himself on the unfenced side of the bridge, endangering his own safety, and physically removed the individual from harm’s way, bringing him to the safety of the other side of the fenced area.
Following the rescue, the individual was subsequently transported to IU Health Hospital to undergo a mental health assessment.
During the interaction with the deputies, the distressed individual repeatedly expressed the sentiment, “You should have let me jump.”
Law enforcement agencies continuously emphasize the importance of mental health awareness and the significance of intervening in situations where individuals may be at risk.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please reach out to a helpline immediately. You are not alone, and there are people available to provide support and help. In the United States, you can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255). Internationally, please consult your local resources for suicide helplines. Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and there are professionals ready to listen and provide assistance 24/7.
