Police Talk Man Out Of Walkway Suicide Attempt After 18 Hours

POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — A man who was threatening to jump from the Walkway Over the Hudson was talked out of it after an all-night negotiation.

The City of Poughkeepsie PBA said, shortly after 8 p.m. Tuesday, that dispatch received a call reporting a possible suicide attempt on the pedestrian span across the Hudson River.

Multiple patrol units and members of the Hostage Negotiation Team were sent and began a dialogue with the man that continued through the night and into the next day.

Around 1:50 p.m. Wednesday, after nearly 18 hours of continuous negotiation, police said the man climbed over the bridge railing and was safely secured by members of the negotiation team.

The man was taken to MidHudson Regional Hospital for evaluation and treatment.

The City of Poughkeepsie Police Hostage Negotiation Team was assisted by the Town of Poughkeepsie Crisis Negotiation Unit and Mental Health American Mobile Crisis Team.

Additional assistance at the scene was provided by the City of Poughkeepsie Fire Department, Mobile Life EMS, New York State Police, New York State Park Police and New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact the HELPLINE at 845-485-9700. Mental Health America of Dutchess County, NY is also a great resource for free and confidential services.