Firefighters and Police Save Man Threatening to Jump From 95 Overpass in Providence

Firefighters and Police Save Man Threatening to Jump From 95 Overpass in Providence

Providence and Pawtucket Firefighters and Providence Police saved a man who was threatening to jump from a Rt. 95 overpass on Tuesday evening. 

Providence Fire Chief Derek Silva provided the following information regarding the incident:

"Firefighters responded at approximately 8:27 PM for a reported male having a mental health crisis and attempting to jump from Broadway by the overpass to 95. 

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A combined effort by Providence Fire and Police along with Pawtucket Fire were able to bring the man back to safety and he was treated by our mobile health clinician and transported by rescue to the hospital. 

Arriving firefighters and police had to hold the male by his clothing while firefighters from the special hazards cut the fence and Pawtucket Fire blocked 95 and raised a ladder."

Traffic was stopped on Route 95 as rescue efforts unfolded. 

 

Team Effort 

GoLocal spoke with Silva Wednesday morning about the incident. 

"It happens more than the general public knows about or would expect to hear about," said Silva about responding to suicidal individuals. "But it’s not too often we get someone on the other side of the fence and that close [to jumping]. It's not too often we’re literally holding onto a person's shirt."

Silva said Tuesday night's response "highlights all the different resources" needed in such an instance. 

"Police and fire got there, then special hazards had to use a special tool to cut the fence, then Pawtucket used a ladder to assist, and mental health clinicians were there to talk with him. It was unfortunate circumstances but all the necessary resources were there," said Silva.