With One Hand, Trooper Grabs Suicidal Man Jumping Off Bridge

EVERETT, WA - A Washington State Patrol trooper saved a suicidal man's life recently by grabbing the man as he went to jump off a bridge over the Snohomish River. The trooper was in the middle of talking the man out of the suicide attempt when the man suddenly made a move to jump.

The rescue happened on Aug. 11 just after 7:30 p.m. Trooper Yaroslav Holodkov was called to the SR 529 bridge, which crosses the mouth of the Snohomish River on the north end of Everett, on a report of a person standing on the bridge. Holodkov began talking to the man, encouraging him to step away from the edge.

Suddenly, the man crouched down on the ledge and jumped. Holodkov reached out with one hand, grabbed the man's shirt, and pulled him back to safety. The man was taken to a local hospital for evaluation.

"The actions of Trooper Holodkov on August 11, illustrate the extent in which our Troopers are dedicated to our motto and mission even when faced with a dangerous situation. Trooper Holodkov acted bravely, putting his own life in grave danger which ultimately prevented a loss of life," Trooper Heather Axtman said in a press release.

Unfortunately, state troopers often deal with suicidal individuals on highway overpasses and bridges. At the end of June, state and Tacoma police talked a person down from the Tacoma Narrows Bridge after they had climbed up a cable and threatened to jump.

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, there are ways to get help. Contact the Suicide Prevention Hotline for resources near you.

Image via Washington State Patrol