On Tuesday afternoon, a tragic incident unfolded on the Moody Street Bridge in Waltham, Massachusetts. At approximately 3:12 p.m., a passerby called 911 to report a person standing on the bridge. Moments later, the caller reported that the individual had leapt into the Charles River.
Rapid response by first responders
Massachusetts State Police arrived quickly, and the Waltham Fire Department was already on scene. Fire Capt. John Bonadio, the fire chief, and another fire official were nearby and became the first department units to engage the emergency.
According to fire officials, three civilians who witnessed the fall entered the water on the west side of the bridge to assist. Waltham police officers threw life jackets and rescue ropes into the river, aiding the rescue effort. Capt. Bonadio and his crew helped pull the victim and the three civilians out of the water.
Medical care for those involved
The person who jumped suffered life‑threatening injuries and was immediately transported to a local hospital for emergency treatment. Two of the civilian rescuers also required medical attention and received CPR on the scene before being taken to the hospital. The third civilian and the fire captain declined further medical care after being evaluated.
Authorities have not released details about what prompted the individual to jump into the river. The investigation remains ongoing, and Waltham police have confirmed their presence at the scene but have not provided additional information.
Community resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with emotional distress, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988. You can also chat live at 988lifeline.org or visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for further support.
The swift actions of the three civilians and the Waltham fire department exemplify the community’s commitment to looking after one another in moments of crisis. Local officials continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and will provide updates as they become available.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
