The Columbia Police Department Crisis Negotiation Team and patrol officers persuaded a male subject to withdraw from the Providence Road overpass Saturday night.

Officers responded to the overpass near I-70 off Providence Road at 10:20 P.M. after receiving a call of a suicidal subject. The 28-year-old male had climbed the overpass and was threatening to jump from the bridge. Traffic was diverted off I-70 while officers were in contact with the male. After over an hour, officers were able to talk the male off the bridge. The male was checked by medics on scene and was then transported to a local hospital for further evaluation. Both directions of I-70 were reopened shortly thereafter.

We appreciate the Columbia residents' and travelers' patience while navigating the alternate routes during the situation. The Columbia Police Department is very proud of the hard work and dedication demonstrated by the Crisis Negotiation Team and patrol officers in deescalating this incident in a timely and effective fashion.

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