The person in crisis was transported to an area hospital on a mental health hold

A person in crisis was assisted off a freeway overpass in the Salmon Creek area of Vancouver Monday (Sept. 11) afternoon. 

On Monday at about 4 p.m., multiple motorists called in to report a male subject was observed hanging on a light pole over the NE 139^th St. overpass of both southbound freeways, Interstate 5 and Interstate 205. Responding deputies from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office found the male over the cement barrier on the north side of the overpass with his heels over the edge of the outside light pole hanging by his hands. 

A request to Washington State Patrol to divert freeway traffic was made as the jumper was over the I-205 southbound lane. A deputy verbally engaged the person in crisis, and after approximately 20 minutes, the individual agreed to come back onto the bridge. 

The person in crisis was transported to an area hospital on a mental health hold. According to the CCSO report, “great professionalism, patience, and empathy were key in the lifesaving outcome of this incident.’’ 

If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, the 988 Lifeline network is available 24/7 across the United States. Dial or Text 988 or visit https://988lifeline.org/.

Information provided by Clark County Sheriff’s Office.