Updated at 1:30 p.m. Alexandria first responders saved a woman dangling off the Monroe Avenue bridge for nearly three hours on Tuesday, June 22.
Police were able to distract the woman, while below her on the ground a Fire Department tower ladder rose up, and then the woman was snatched and then safely put into the ladder bucket.
“She’s safe,” AFD Senior Public Information Officer Raytevia Evans told ALXnow.
A city resident standing below the bridge called 911 at around 10;45 a.m reporting that the woman climbed over the chain-link fence and was hanging off side of the bridge, AFD told ALXnow.
The fire department deployed airbags beneath the bridge, and EMS was also on-scene. All traffic was diverted on the roadway, which is Route 1 and bisects Old Town and Potomac Yard. Alexandria Police tweeted that the woman is suffering from a mental health crisis.
Alexandria Fire Department – whenever, wherever, whatever we will answer the call. Thank you heroes for keeping the City safe. A great effort from AFD, APD and the Sheriff’s Office. pic.twitter.com/alafJepEO1
— Corey Smedley (@SmedleyCorey) June 22, 2021
It was a team effort to help a community member in a mental health crisis. Members of #APD, @AlexandriaVAFD @ffxfirerescue @AlexVASheriff worked together to get the person down safely. Thank you @IAFF2068 for the inflatable pad. @IAFFLocal2141 pic.twitter.com/07sCVPi7Ww
— Alexandria Police (@AlexandriaVAPD) June 22, 2021
ALERT::⚠️ Police activity has shut down the Route 1 bridge over Mainline Blvd for a subject in a mental health crisis. Please find an alternate route. Updates provided as needed.
— Alexandria Police (@AlexandriaVAPD) June 22, 2021
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger of self-harm, call 911 or the Department of Human Services’ emergency services line at 703-746-3401. CrisisLink also has a 24-hour crisis hotline at 703-527-4077 or 800-SUICIDE, or text 703-940-0888.
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