Cops Save Man From Jumping Off Bridge In Bethesda: MCPD

BETHESDA, MD — Two Montgomery County police officers are being hailed as heroes after they stopped a man who looked as though he was ready to jump off a bridge in Bethesda. Authorities did not disclose the man's identity but said he had been missing from a group home since Monday evening.

Staff members at the group home eventually found the man on the Union Arch Bridge and alerted authorities. When police officers Marcella West and Samuel Yun arrived at 7934 MacArthur Blvd., they saw that the man had already climbed the bridge's safety fence and "was getting ready to jump off," officials said.

According to police, West grabbed the man while Yun climbed the safety fence and secured him from the other side. Additional officers arrived on the scene and helped West and Yun pull the man back to safety.

The man was taken to a local hospital for an evaluation.

Capt. Sean Gagen, commander of the county police department's 2nd District, commended the officers for their quick thinking and acts of bravery.

"The quick and courageous actions taken by these officers helped save a life and avoid a tragedy from occurring. Their heroic efforts showed their dedication to public safety and it is a testament to who they are as Montgomery County Police Officers. I am truly thankful that the young man will be able to get the help that he needs and I couldn't be more proud of our officers actions," Gagen said.

Resources for Help

• The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
• Crisis Text Line: Text 741741
• Maryland Crisis Connect: Call 211 and press option 1 or text 898-211
• Montgomery County Hotline: Call 301-738-2255
• Trevor Lifeline: Call 1-866-488-7386
• Trans Lifeline US: Call 1-877-565-8860 // Canada: Call 1-877-330-6366