VIDEO: CHP Struggles with Distraught Jumper as He Dangles From Bridge

Statement released by the CHP:

On the morning of February 10, 2015 at approximately 7:36 a.m., the California Highway Patrol, Golden Gate Communications Center received a 9-1-1 call of a silver Mercedes Benz blocking the northbound lane of SR-160 at the mid-span of the Antioch Bridge. The report indicated a man was standing outside of the bridge rail on the east side of the bridge, and was possibly intending to jump from the bridge. Reports also indicated the man, later identified as Sunny A. Pal was possibly armed with a gun, and possibly a knife.

Units from the CHP Contra Costa Area Office responded to the scene. Upon arrival, both directions of SR-160 at the Antioch Bridge were closed for the safety of the despondent man, the officers, and the public. CHP officers, along with crisis negotiators from the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office attempted to establish a dialog with Pal. Personnel from the Antioch Police Department and the Oakley Police Department also responded to provide assistance. The United States Coast Guard also responded to the area and positioned their boat underneath the bridge in the event a rescue attempt was necessary.

Approximately two hours into the incident, an opportunity arose for the officers to attempt to bring Pal back over the bridge rail. Pal resisted the officers’ attempts to secure his safety, and at one point let go of the bridge rail and pushed away from the railing. A CHP officer managed to maintain hold of Pal as he dangled from the bridge, while two other CHP officers held onto his duty belt and legs. Together, the officers were able to pull Pal back onto the ledge, but were unable to pull him over the bridge rail. Later on, an opportunity to bring Pal over the bridge rail arose, and officers were able to secure and detain him without further incident.

Pal was subsequently evaluated by emergency medical personnel from the American Medical Response, and he was transported to the Contra Costa County Regional Medical Center in Martinez. No injuries were sustained by any parties as a result of this incident. Both directions of SR-160 were reopened at approximately 10:27 a.m.

Video courtesy CHP via YouTube

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