Homeless Man Hears Suicidal Woman Jump from Bridge, Dives into Water To Save Her
The numbers alone are staggering. According to the World Health Organization, roughly 800,000 people succumb to a suicide attempt every single year.
Here in the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that about 1 million adults report some type of suicide attempt annually. The CDC offers a few other troubling statistics as well.
For example, they report that in 2015, suicide was the second leading cause of death for people between the ages of 15 to 34. They also indicate that during the same year, it was the third leading cause of death for children aged 10 to 14.
These figures are incredibly distressing, but they also point to a singular ray of hope. If you or somebody you know has ever considered suicide, you’re most certainly not alone.
A recent story out of Minneapolis also highlights another essential truth. It proves, undoubtedly, that heroes and guardian angels are walking among us all the time.
According to the University of Minnesota police, a lone woman was out walking along the Washington Avenue Bridge one recent weekend. The Minnesota Department of Transportation notes that this 1,130-foot-long structure connects the school’s growing main east campus with its newer west bank campus.
The DOT also mentions that the Washington Avenue Bridge is currently the only known double-deck bridge in Minnesota. It features an upper level for pedestrian foot traffic and a lower level for motor vehicles.
Officials estimate that in the wee hours of Saturday morning, somewhere around 2:30 a.m., the female pedestrian jumped into the frigid waters below. And that’s when a nearby homeless man jumped into action.
The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports that the man was camping beneath the bridge at the time the incident occurred. He heard the woman hit the water when she fell, and he plunged in to pull her to safety.
Thanks to the selfless act of this good Samaritan, university police indicate that the woman survived. She was rushed to a local hospital for additional intervention and treatment.
Meanwhile, Minneapolis first responders offered the homeless gentleman a sheltered place to sleep for the night. But he quietly turned down their offer, and simply returned to his camp.
The identities of this courageous rescuer and the woman he saved weren’t released. But perhaps the situation makes you think about someone you know.
So many friends, loved ones, neighbors and coworkers may secretly struggle with anxiety, depression or despondent thoughts. The warning signs are often frustratingly subtle.
But Annual World Suicide Prevention Day happens on Sept. 10. It’s a powerful, consistent reminder that our own quiet actions and choices can truly make a life-changing difference.
Even if we don’t notice outward signs, we always have an opportunity to express kindness and encouragement. A few friendly words, a sincere compliment, a heartfelt expression of gratitude, simple inclusion — all of these things can act like a lifeline for those who may feel hopelessly submerged.
If you or somebody you know is grappling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.
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