Tacoma, WA (July 28, 2025) — Two separate incidents involving individuals in apparent mental health crises occurred in Tacoma on Monday, briefly halting traffic and prompting emergency responses.
In the first incident, a man parked his vehicle on the Pacific Avenue overpass before jumping onto the southbound lanes of Interstate 5. He was struck by oncoming traffic and did not survive, according to authorities. His identity has not yet been released, pending notification of family.
Just hours later, emergency responders were dispatched to the Tacoma Narrows Bridge after receiving reports of a man seen climbing over the railing. The individual was found dangling above the 188-foot drop into the Tacoma Narrows Strait. Negotiators were able to safely coax the man back onto the bridge deck, and he was taken into custody for evaluation.
Unless you were caught in the resulting traffic backups or directly witnessed the events, you may not have known they occurred. Officials are urging the public to remain aware of the ongoing mental health crisis and to seek help or support those who may be struggling.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is available. Contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 — available 24/7.
