Police Chief Says Suicide Of Tampa Man Serves As Reminder

Tampa FL

11 December, 2020

4:37 PM

Description

TAMPA, FL — Tampa Police Chief Brian Dugan said the heroic efforts of rescuers to try to save a 35-year-old man who jumped from the Rowlette Park bridge demonstrates the rising mental health crisis. While the Tampa Police Department generally does not release information about suicides out of respect for the survivors, Dugan said the man's family approved the release of information as a reminder to families to watch out for the mental health of loved ones during the holiday season. At 12:43 p.m. Wednesday, Tampa police and fire rescue were called to East Mulberry Drive and Rowlett Drive after witnesses reported a man on fire hanging from the bridge over the Hillsborough River. Rescuers were able to lower the man to the river, placed him on a stretcher and provided emergency first aid. He was then taken to Tampa General Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Evidence collected at the scene and interviews with the family confirmed that the man intended to kill himself. Dugan said the family has been referred to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay for help dealing with the suicide. "This tragedy is an additional trauma for the family, the responding officers, paramedics and the community who were witnesses," Dugan said. "With the holiday season upon us, loneliness and pandemic fatigue are even greater concerns for those in mental health crisis. It is important we look out for our family, our neighbors, and each other. Help can be a phone call away. Whether you call the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay at 211 or call 911 in an imminent emergency, someone is there to answer your call." The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is an important resource for those who are having thoughts of suicide or people concerned for a loved one. The Lifeline provides free, 24/7 confidential support at 1-800-273-8255. The Lifeline is committed to advancing suicide prevention, along with improving crisis services. Everyone can help prevent suicide. Learn more about the risk factors and warning signs of suicide and five action steps you can use to help someone in need.