A pair of local police officers are being commended for saving the life of a suicidal youth.
The Chatham-Kent Police said Constables Trent Fox and Travis Maxwell responded to a call on March 24 regarding a young person who was threatening to end their life by jumping off a bridge in Wallaceburg.
The two officers located the youth at one of the town’s bridges in obvious distress, threatening to jump off.
As Constable Fox spoke with the youth, Constable Maxwell positioned himself to prevent the youth from being able to jump off the bridge. When the youth put his legs over the bridge’s railing, Constable Maxwell pulled them safely from the edge.
The youth was taken into custody and transported to the local hospital for care.
“This is an excellent example of police work and teamwork that resulted in the rescue of a young person who appeared steadfast on ending their life,” said Police Chief Kirk Earley. “Their actions exemplified the character and reputation to which our service strives for, and as a result, they are to be recognized for their actions.”
Both officers received a chief’s commendation during the Chatham-Kent Police Services Board meeting on April 9.