Updated March 21 at 9:46 p.m.
Around 7:15 p.m. on March 21, 2021, Greater Sudbury Police Service (GSPS) received a call regarding a man in emotional distress on the Bridge of Nations on Paris Street in Greater Sudbury.
Patrol officers arrived on scene and closed the bridge so that officers could focus on a peaceful and successful resolution to the situation. City of Greater Sudbury Fire Services and Paramedic Services arrived in the immediate area.
Members of the Emergency Response Unit specializing in Crisis Negotiation arrived on scene and began communications with the man. As part of the Mobile Response to Mental Health, a forensic psychiatrist was called to the scene to assist crisis negotiators.
Shortly after 9:00 p.m. the situation was successfully de-escalated and the 26-year-old man was transported to hospital to receive the support services that he requires.
The Bridge of Nations on Paris Street is now open in both directions.
"We would also like to thank our local Mental Health professional for the assistance and expertise with this call and we would like to commend the work and efforts of our officers on scene who successfully and peacefully de-escalated a high-risk, high-stress situation," GSPS said in a press release.
"We’ve seen a significant increase in mental health calls over the past year. We strongly encourage community members to reach out for mental health support if you are struggling. For more information on available resources please visit the Canadian Mental Health Association Sudbury/Manitoulin."
If you are in a crisis or feeling overwhelmed, please reach out to Crisis Intervention Services for assistance. You can also call the 24/7 crisis support line anytime at 705-675-4760.
Remember, reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness – it’s a sign of strength. Stigma associated with mental illness can create a serious barrier for people who are suffering. Stigma trivializes and belittles people and their mental health conditions. It’s okay to talk openly about mental health. Let’s end the stigma surrounding mental illness.
Original:
Greater Sudbury Police are dealing with a man in distress on the Paris St. Bridge of Nations this evening (March 21).
Around 7:30 p.m., police tweeted asking motorists to "avoid the Paris St Bridge of Nations as it has been temporarily closed while police deal with a person in distress."
"Members of the Emergency Response Specializing in Crisis Negotiation are on scene assisted by a psychiatrist. Officers continue to communicate with the man. Please avoid the area and allow officers to focus on a peaceful resolution."
The news comes just days after a 53-year-old woman died after she fell from the Bridge of Nations on the evening of March 19.
The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is currently investigating the March 19 incident. Read more on that here.
