By-Line: Tonya Woodworth, FCSO
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office led a multi-agency effort to save a man who was threatening to jump off the Interstate 95 overpass bridge above State Road 100 in Palm Coast.
On the afternoon of March 18, 2025, the FCSO Communications Center received multiple calls reporting that an adult male was sitting on the overpass bridge. According to the callers, the male was drinking, making obscene gestures at passing drivers, and motioning that he was going to jump.
Deputies responded to the scene, followed by members of the Florida Highway Patrol, Flagler County Fire Rescue, Palm Coast Fire Department, and Flagler Beach Police Department.
Deputies shut down I-95 and SR 100 in all directions and began rerouting traffic while the FCSO Crisis Negotiations Team established contact with the male. Crisis negotiators spoke with the male while firefighters brought up a ladder truck beneath the overpass. Following a lengthy conversation, deputies and firefighters assisted the male from the overpass and onto a fire department bucket lift. Once secured, deputies placed the male into protective custody under the Baker Act, and he was transported to Stewart-Marchman for treatment. Previously, the same individual made the same threat at Palm Coast Parkway and I-95.
“I am thankful to see this situation was resolved safely with no one getting hurt,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “I hope that this guy can get the help he needs. This rescue was truly a team effort. Thanks to our deputies’ quick response, our well-trained Crisis Negotiations Team, and coordination with our partner agencies, we saved a life today. Unfortunately, so many drivers were delayed but the important part is life was saved.”
Members of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Highway Patrol, Flagler County Fire Rescue, Palm Coast Fire Department, and Flagler Beach Police Department respond to a suicidal male at the I-95 overpass over State Road 100.
Sheriff Staly and FCSO remind residents that there are numerous resources available in Flagler County for those struggling with mental health, and help is always available for those who need it. Get help by contacting Flagler Cares at 386-319-9483 or contacting the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org.
Sheriff Rick Staly debriefed with deputies after the male was rescued and placed into protective custody.
