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Lorries park under motorway bridge in bid to save man threatening to jump

The lorries teamed up with police to try and help a man threatening to jump

SWNS reporter
Beth Hunter
Monday 11 September 2023 15:46 BST
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HGV vehicles under a motorway bridge where a man was threatening to jump off on the M5 at Taunton, Somerset
HGV vehicles under a motorway bridge where a man was threatening to jump off on the M5 at Taunton, Somerset (NPAS South West & Wales Region / SWNS)

HGV drivers lined up under a motorway bridge - to try and catch a man threatening to jump.

The lorries teamed up with police and pulled under the M5 crossing in a bid to save the jumper’s life.

Officers were called to a concern for welfare incident at Taunton in Somerset on Sunday.

NPAS South West & Wales Region confirmed they had dispatched an emergency aircraft to assist Avon and Somerset Police with the incident.

“We have deployed our Exeter aircraft to assist AS Police with a person in crisis on the M5 at Taunton,” the statement said.

‘’After witnessing the situation, HGV drivers began to park directly underneath the bridge to stop the man from jumping.’’

Police also confirmed in the statement that the man was rescued unharmed, thanking the lorry drivers for their efforts.

“Excellent intervention by officers on scene means male is now safe,” police said.

“Fantastic to see HGV drivers offering to help with their lorries to safeguard the person – thank you.”

If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.

If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call the National Suicide Prevention Helpline on 1-800-273-TALK (8255). This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.

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