Cop Stops Suicide Attempt At Morristown Train Station: Police

MORRISTOWN, NJ — A fast-acting police officer saved the life of a woman who was lying between the train tracks at Morristown station in an apparent suicide attempt.

Last month, Officer Bryan Holmes was on patrol when he was alerted to a disturbance on the eastbound platform of the Morristown train station and heard shouting, according to police.

Holmes found a middle-aged woman lying between the rails of the eastbound tracks, seemingly attempting suicide. Without hesitation, he radioed for a stop on NJ Transit trains and quickly jumped onto the tracks.

Despite several attempts to lift the woman, she resisted, making it difficult to move her, police said. The situation grew critical when an eastbound train approached rapidly, showing no signs of slowing down.

With the help of two bystanders, Holmes lifted the woman to safety just as the express train entered the station. The woman, whose identity has not been released, was later transported to the hospital and handed over to mental health professionals.

"He risked his life to save another, demonstrating exceptional bravery and quick thinking in the face of imminent danger," police said.

Officer Holmes was awarded the Life Saving Award by Chief Darnell Richardson for his actions that day. "We are incredibly proud of Officer Holmes and the unwavering courage he displayed in saving a life. Congratulations and thank you for a job well done," Chief Richardson said.

People suffering from suicidal thoughts can find support at the below resources:

• The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988. The Lifeline offers confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for people in distress, prevention, and crisis resources for you or your loved one.
• The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) afsp.org also recommends calling or texting 988 to reach the Lifeline if you are in crisis and in need of support.