The Dallas Police Department released video of a Tuesday night call for service on the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge that led to rescue of a woman in distress.
The department released the footage and further details about the incident in a Friday afternoon social media post. According to the post, police responded to the call at approximately 11:38 p.m.
When officers arrived at the scene, they found a woman sitting on the bridge who they believed was about to jump into the river below. Officers began speaking to the woman in order to deescalate the situation, and called for a RIGHT Care team, as well as a swift water rescue team from Dallas Fire-Rescue.
According to the post, officers spoke to the woman for over an hour, keeping physical contact with her until she finally chose to stand up and step back over onto the bridge. The officers immediately took her to a local hospital for a medical evaluation.
“The immediate response by these officers, and the compassion and patience they showed, saved this young woman’s life,” the post states.
If you or anyone you know is dealing with a mental health crisis—whether it’s feelings of hopelessness, isolation, or shame—help is available.
Please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or the Suicide and Crisis Center of North Texas at 514-828-1000. You can also text “Connect” to 741741 at any time to reach a trained, caring volunteer at the National Crisis Text Line.