On December 26, 2013 at 1046 HRS Sherman County Deputies were dispatched to a report of a man standing on the bridge railing at the 17 milepost on I70. Deputy’s arrived about 2 minutes later and determined that the man was suicidal. Several Deputies’ and a passerby tried to talk the man down from the bridge railing. After 10 minutes the 41 year old man was subdued and taken into custody without incident. Quick response from Sherman County Sheriff’s Deputy’s, Goodland Police Department, Kansas Department of Wildlife Parks and Tourism and the Good Samaritan are the reason that this situation ended without loss of life. This incident did result in the closure of I70 at mile marker 17, the Goodland exit and K27 at mp 170 for a short period of time.
Holidays are a tough time for some and this incident serves as a reminder to take time to talk with your loved ones and report any unusual behavior. If you are the one who needs help you can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1800-273-TALK.