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An unidentified man dropped off the Palm Bay Road overpass Wednesday afternoon, causing massive traffic disruptions on Palm Bay Road and I-95, in what Palm Bay Police are calling a “tragic incident.”
A statement released by Palm Bay Police Department said officers and emergency services were on scene negotiating with the individual, prompting them to roadblock traffic in all directions for safety while handling the situation. Traffic was stopped for about an hour.
This means, there was no passing traffic activity on the highway when the man fell.
According to the statement, the man was threatening to jump — until he did.
“Despite the valiant efforts of officers and negotiators, the male jumped, sustaining injuries,” the statement said.
Police said the man was immediately taken to a local hospital and is listed in “critical condition.”
Some social media comments from locals said the man fell to his death. This has not been confirmed by authorities.
Other comments from people claiming to be onlookers said the man was drinking what appeared to be an alcoholic beverage directly from the container, while sitting on the railing, before dropping off. This also has not been confirmed by police.
“Respecting the privacy of the individual and their loved ones, we will not be releasing the male’s name at this time,” police said in a statement.
Anyone in need of mental health resources or battling depression is urged to seek help. A Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the 9-8-8 phone number.
Police said this is an ongoing investigation. The Space Coast Rocket will continue reporting as more information becomes available.