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2017 jump eventsthe 3rd busiest suicide jump year in skyway history.updated: 12.30.17 |
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(our comments follow) |
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12.20.17: possible something, 11:30am unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporter: 12.20.17, Raleigh, St Petersburg, (11:30am), Small blue unoccupied car on south span. 2 troopers and fore rescue. any more info is welcome. |
| 12.12.17: jumper save, female |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 12.12.17, Bobby, St. Petersburg, As I was driving northbound on the highway of Skyway bridge in St. Petersburg I saw a car parked on the side of the door open hazard lights flashing and I came closer on my Snapchat I was recording the bridge I look to my right and I see a woman walking across looking down scaling scaling I call the police immediately is it ever going to cost about the same situation I don’t know she jumped or not but I assume she did 12.13.17, Bev D., (12.12.17, 6:30pm, female), I was crossing the skyway northbound on 12.12 around 6:30pm or 6:45pm. Vehicle was parked with flashers, saw a woman walking to the top of the bridge. Called 911, was told they already had several calls. Saw 1st responders headed from St Pete south to the bridge. Unknown if responders got there in time. Do you know anything? 12.13.17, Cathie P., facebook comments plugin, I came upon that car last night around 6:50 police had a girl handcuffed and were talking to her. Many police officers any more info is welcome. |
| 12.12.17, iontb/fb • iontb.com, Skyway Bridge: Watch for slowdowns after Pinellas Deputy successfully takes subject into custody. Reports that person was contemplating suicide. |
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12.06.17: possible something, 9:40am unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 12.06.17, Marty, Saint Pete, White Car at the southbound Skyway Bridge apex. Saw an abandoned white car around 9:40 this a.m. Traffic had slowed. Called 911 and told others had also reported. Said the LE had been dispatched. 12.06.17, Amandla, St. Petersburg, Saw the same white car on the top of the bridge at little after 9am. At that time there was someone sitting in the drivers seat. 12.06.17, david g., twitter, empty white car with flashers on top of the southbound span. No sign of LEO any more info is welcome. |
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12.04.17: possible something unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 12.04.17, Bryan B., St.Pete., (7:00am), Car was parked near top of bridge on southbound side. There was one police car there with lights on. What looked like some kind of white canvas duffle bag was off to the side of the road. 12.04.17, Sherri H., Riverview, (7:30am), I saw a car parked near the hump on the southbound side. There was a Road Ranger behind the car and it looked like someone was sitting in the driver seat. It may have just been a vehicle issue. any more info is welcome. |
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11.24.17: jumper, 6:50am, male, hit water, died, body found
11.31.17 William Ralph Robeysek, 64 |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 11.24.17, L., Jumper this morning, search is currently under way 11.24.17, Claudia H., facebook, Empty blue Chevy Cruze atop bridge. Cop was there. Car was empty. Heading north. 830am 11.24.17, Beverly L, facebook, Fox 13 is showing Police on Skyway looking down, they are saying Jumper. It was just on, I can't believe the traffic girl reported on this. 11.24.17,  11.24.17, Patrick M., Was traveling northbound and saw car pulled over with emergency lights flashing at around 6:20am, about 100 yard from top of bridge, man in red polo shirt and dark pants got out and walked to the back of his car, didn't see anything else in my rear view as it was still too dark.
11.24.17, Patrick M., facebook comments plugin, We were going northbound at about 6:20am, saw a man pulled over about 100yards from the top of the bridge, it was dark, but could see he had a red polo shirt with horizontal stripes and dark pants get out of his dark colored car and walk around the rear of it as we passed him. Didn't see anything else in my rear view mirror. 11.28.17, randall, bradenton, jumper on 11/24/17, that was a friend of mine from coda who jumped body still not recovered as of yet. sad it had to end this way any more info is welcome. |
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11.24.17, Hillsborough Sheriff,
REFER - FHP, SKYWAY BG, 0651, 0654,
0h3m 11.24.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, SUICIDE ATTEMPT, SKYWAY BG, 0700, 1053, 3h53m 11.24.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, MOTORIST ASSIST, SKYWAY BG, 0949, 1001, 0h10m 11.24.17, pcsoweb.com,  |
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11.24.17, iontb/fb • iontb.com, Skyway: Search by air, land, and sea for suspected jumper from the northbound lanes of the bridge. Disabled vehicle also reported in southbound lanes. Drive carefully and expect delays. 12.03.17, bradenton.com, FWC working to identify body discovered near Egmont Key, The body of a deceased white male that appears to be in his 60s found Sunday morning in the area of Egmont Key could be a Cortez boater who has been missing since Nov. 17, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Egmont Key is the same area where Cortez resident Fraser Horne, 64, went missing on his boat on Nov. 17. The FWC had not yet positively identified the body by Sunday night, said James Boogaerts, an FWC spokesman. "FWC is searching for a missing boater from Nov. 17 in the area that the body was found," Boogaerts said in a news release. "Authorities are working diligently to identify the body of the deceased male and will be notifying next of kin as soon as a positive identification has been made." FWC received a call from the United States Coast Guard at approximately 7:30 a.m. Sunday that the body was found by a good Samaritan, Boogaerts said. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office aided FWC in the pick up and investigation of the body, according to an HCSO official. The U.S. Coast Guard had suspended the search for Horne on Nov. 19. Horne was reported missing around 6:15 p.m. Nov. 17 by his wife, Michele Horne, who told officials her husband left from Egmont Key on his boat but did not return on time. Horne’s 30-foot boat, "Golden Rush," was found nearly five miles northwest of Bradenton, according to a tweet from the Coast Guard. Fraser’s dog, Toula, who was with him, was found alive on Nov. 17. The boat was in neutral, but the engine lights were left on. A wallet, keys and shoes were found by a Coast Guard rescue swimmer. Crews from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Holmes Beach Police Department, Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission assisted in the original search. Search crews completed 32 search patterns of about 2,192 square miles over two days, according to a Coast Guard press release. Fraser is from Alberta, Canada, but he has a winter residence in Cortez. 12.05.17, bradenton.com, Authorities identify body found near Egmont Key. He had jumped from Skyway, cops say, Officials have identified a man whose body was discovered near Egmont Key over the weekend. According to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, the man has been identified as William Robeysek, 64. Deputies previously found his vehicle abandoned near the top of the bridge Nov. 24. Officials believe Robeysek, of Bradenton, jumped from the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. In the early stages of the investigation, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission believed that the body could have belonged to 64-year-old Fraser Horne, who went missing after a boating trip Nov. 17. The agency said that it will continue "its efforts in the recovery of this missing boater." |
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12.15.17, C/B W., Raleigh NC., So very sad that Bill Robeysek thought this was his only option. A dear 45 yr. friend who will be missed.
Still hard to believe Billy jumped. The gates of heaven were open/waiting to bring you peace. Fondly, Clay & Becky 05.27.19, Ashley S., Bradenton, FL., My fiance Bill Robeysek jumped and died on November 24, 2017, I still can't believe Billy would do something so drastic like this. The police officer who appeared at our door that horrific morning stated "He sure had a lot of guts to do something like this". I don't think guts had anything to do with it but shear desperation. I still haven't been able to cross that bridge. facebook article posts |
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11.14.17: possible something unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporter: 11.14.17, Stephem, SAINT PETERSBURG, florida, Possible second jumper, Drove over bridge before flip over car accident. Man was outside undamaged looking minivan on northbound side. No warning light. Was yelling at a fire truck on the other span. Think i might have seen body fall out of rearview mirror. Perhaps the flip over crash is related to a witness. any more info is welcome. |
| 11.14.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE, SKYWAY BG, 1518, 1524, 0h6m |
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11.14.17: jumper, 4:50am, male, no crisis
phones, hit water, died, body found Timothy Authur Arruda, 49 |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 11.14.17, anon, Abandoning car on top of skyway southbound lane 11.14.17, anon, St. Petersburg, IONTB reporting \"Skyway Bridge: Emergency personnel with abandon vehicle atop the bridge. Marine units searching the waters below. \" via Twitter @IONTB 11.14.17, Sherri H., (8:00am), I was driving North on the Skyway Bridge this morning just before 8:00. I got to the top and noticed flashing lights on the South side. There were 2 police cars and a Road Ranger behind an empty vehicle. It was a 2-seater convertible, possibly an older Mazda Miata. 11.14.17, anon, (5:00am, male, no crisis phones, hit water, died, body found), jump today 11.14.17, BILL e., Riverview, Fl., Body recovered, 11/14/2017 16:10, Just heard HCSO Aviation unit talking to a boat that just loaded a body on board. later on, facebook, I think he jumped this morning or last night. Check Skyway jumper site. I heard HCSO chopper talking to the boat that recovered him. Chopper thought he hit the rocks (called Dolphins) that protect the bridge from another tanker disaster. Chopper did not find him @ time of jump. Body was recovered by a boat & i heard the conversation between chopper & boat as recovery was made around 2pm today. 11.14.17, Shanna B., facebook, Oh i drove by this this morning i was coming in to st. pete it was on the other side. i was hoping it was something else but i knew it was a jumper had a very real filling 11.14.17, Karen E., facebook, I drove by his car this morning at it was still at the top of the bridge at 7 am. Three police cars with it. Such an eerie sight. I live close by and I know it happens way more than anyone knows and the news certainly doesn't report it. I pray for his family any more info is welcome. |
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| 11.14.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, DECEASED PERSON, SKYWAY BG, 0451, 1603, 11h12m | ||||
| 11.14.17, iontb/fb • iontb.com, Skyway Bridge: Emergency personnel with abandon vehicle atop the bridge. Marine units searching the waters below. Southbound lanes later: Most land based unit going available. Call was dispatched at approximately 4:50 a.m. | ||||
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facebook article posts •Kayla W., fbplugin, So tragic. His photography was inspiring. I painted a version of the first picture in this post yesterday. I battle depression and the urge to commit suicide almost daily. But even though I did not know this man, for some reason his suicide has affected me a great deal. I think it's unfortunate his photography page has been apparently taken down. The beauty of his photographs has somehow taken away the 'beauty suicide sometimes holds in my mind. RIP Tim Arruda. I am SO sorry your life became so terrible it was no longer enduring. I hope you have found peace. •Deirdre Arruda, fbplugin, Hello. This is Tim’a daughter. I would love to see the painting you did of Dad’a photograph. He inspired a lot of people. |
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11.11.17: possible something unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 11.11.17, Cathrine, St. Petersburg, Abandon car in Left northbound lane with flashers on, no person seen walking 11.11.17, Shena M., facebook, I don't see a post about today, but between 5 and 5:30 we were approaching the incline of the bridge and then all of a sudden the traffic just stopped to a crawl and after about 2 minutes we noticed that the cause was a car that was champagne and looked like a Mercury Milan with it's hazards on at just before the peek, no driver in sight. Do you have any info on this by any chance? any more info is welcome. |
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Shena M., facebook comments plugin, Looked like a champagne Mercury Milan Troy B., facebook comments plugin, I passed this car too, no one around and no law enforcement. The thing that struck me as odd was it was right in the middle of the lane. |
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10.31.17: possible something unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporter: 10.31.17, anonymous, St. Pete., Just got home- dark blue car pulled over at top of bridge. Police and ambulances with lights on- right lane closed any more info is welcome. |
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10.08.17: possible something unknown |
10.08.17,  10.09.17, Lisa P. G., facebook comments plugin, There was a white sedan, possible an older Camry w/ hazards on and windows rolled down. Passenger door ws open and appeared to be someone sitting in the passenger seat. This was just about midway up the 275S hump. Seems a strange place to park to jump as it's not near the apex or the emergency phone. Always possible it just broke down, altho the hood was not up. It was lightly sprinkling on that side of the bridge. Once you got over the top, it was pouring buckets. Idk which way the rain was heading, but I called it in to FHP at 6:34pm and I was the first to report it to them; however, it had already showed up as a "car on side of road" on my Waze app. any more info is welcome. |
| 10.06.17: jumper save, male, 8:38pm |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 10.06.17, Commuter B., Bradenton, bridge activity both directions, Multiple patrol cars at the top of the bridge tonight on both Northbound and Southbound directions. I crossed around 9:00p.m. and thought I also saw an ambulance leaving no lights on. 10.06.17, Angela R. R., facebook, 2 cops on south bound dude, 3 or 4 on north bound with abandoned car when we went by 10.06.17, Laura F., facebook, Came across about an hour ago. Car parked with cop car behind it on the Pinellas side of the hump. Cop had a guy on the ground, looked like holding him down or cuffing him. Saw 4 cops with sirens coming from Pinellas side headed southbound. I'm assuming they needed to come across to cut over to NB to assist. any more info is welcome. |
| 10.06.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, ASSIST OTHER AGENCY, SKYWAY BG, 2040, 2114, 0h34m |
| 10.07.17, iontb/fbpm, Came in as a possible jumper. FHP arrived on scene first and secured the person. Fire rescue was still requested to evaluate the subject. Will try to get me info today. Call went out at 8:38 pm |
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10.01.17: woman out for a stroll, 6:30pm unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 10.01.17, Jane doe, Sarasota, fl., Fhp on bridge behind unoccupied vehicle 10.01.17, Cynthia K., Palm Harbor, (6:00pm), Drove over the north bound span and saw all the emergency vehicles and officials looking over the south bound span with huge backups and saw the emergency boat headed towards the bridge. The jumper jumped from the south bound wall. 10.01.17, Chris J., Lakewood Ranch, Empty car with Highway Patrol on top of bridge. 10.01.17, Barbara H., facebook, Went over Skyway Bridge tonight around 6:40 and a lot of police activity and ambulance with an empty green older model Honda sedan with window rolled down and empty. Also saw saw rescue boats on the way out. Very dramatic scene with the stormy skies and choppy water. Praying for the person and their loved ones. 10.01.17, Den Blinde Raeven, facebook, Something is going on...
Steven H., facebook, Not a jumper. Woman was seen walking on bridge. When not seen by FHP they suspected she jumped. She was picked up by another motorist and eventually ended back up at the vehicle. All FD units went available. any more info is welcome. |
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| 10.01.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, SUICIDE ATTEMPT, SKYWAY BG, 1836, 1902, 0h26m | |||
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09.22.17: jumper, 10:00pm, female, died, body found days
later Velma Jean Dobbs, 73 |
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thank you, jumpnews reporter: 09.22.17, Private, Lakewood ranch, My husband and I coming over the bridge tonight from Tampa to Lakewood Ranch. Abandoned car at the top going into manatee county. Helicopter with search light all over the water and numerous cops up too looking over. First responders as well. We knew something was wrong when the highway sign said RT lane closed police activity. May God have mercy on his or her soul. Our 4 year old is with us. Trying to explain all of the activity to him saying someone ran out of gas. Oh the first responders are here because someone got sick ... I can't pretend to understand this Leon's pain or situation. But having to find excuses to calm my 4 year old is leaving me in tears... I know these people aren't in his or her right minds but I'm so upset right now... prayers for the family... any more info is welcome. |
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09.22.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, MISSING PERSONS - ADULT ENDANGERED, SKYWAY BG, 2200, 0232, 4h32m 09.23.17, HillsboroughSheriff, On September 22, 2017 at approximately 10:00 pm, a gray Hyundai Sante Fe was found on top of the Skyway Bridge, with the keys inside the unlocked vehicle. The registered owner, Velma Dobbs was not located. Her identification was also found inside the vehicle. She was last seen leaving her residence at 2801 Trinidad Way in Palmetto, Florida at approximately 5:00 pm on the same date. She has not been seen or heard from since. She is considered missing endangered due to these circumstances and her recent attempt to harm herself a week ago. Anyone with any information reference her whereabouts is asked to call the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office at 247-8200. Update: On September 23, 2017, at approximately 3:30 pm, a body was recovered by Florida Fish and Wildlife from the bay. On October 2, the Hillsborough County Medical Examiner positively identified the deceased as Velma Dobbs. |
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09.22.17, iontb/fb • iontb.com,
Skyway Bridge: Crews are on, over, and under the bridge investigating an abandoned vehicle on the bridge since about 9pm. 09.23.17, wfla.com, Search underway for endangered woman after empty car found on Sunshine Skyway Bridge PALMETTO, Fla. (WFLA) – The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has launched a search for a missing and endangered woman after finding her car empty on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge Friday night. Deputies say a gray Hyundai Santa Fe was found unlocked with the keys inside at the top of the Skyway Bridge around 10 p.m. The registered owner has been identified as 73-year-old Velma Dobbs and her identification was found inside the car. Deputies say Dobbs has not been located. Dobbs was last seen leaving her home on Trinidad Way in Palmetto around 5 p.m. Friday, according to investigators. She has not been seen or heard from since. The sheriff’s office says she is considered missing and endangered due to the circumstances and a recent attempt to harm herself. Anyone with information is asked to call the sheriff’s office at 813-247-8200. 10.02.17, 970wfla.iheart.com, Body Found In Bay Identified Tampa, Fla.-(Newsradio 970 WFLA)-The Hillsborough County Medical Examiner has identified a body pulled from Tampa Bay as a missing Palmetto woman. The body, found by Florida Fish and Wildlife, is that of 73 year-old Velma Jean Dobbs. Dobbs had been missing since September 22 after her gray Hyundai Santa Fe was found parked on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. The vehicle was unlocked and her keys in the ignition. The body was found a day after the vehicle, but it took several weeks to get a positive identification. Investigators says Dobbs had been considered as missing and endangered after a recent attempt to harm herself. |
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facebook article posts
• Garry C., fbplugin, I know her Son Gregory Dobbs, and met her in 2006; our meeting was not in the best way, but, I forgave her for what she did to me. I would not wish something like this to happen to anyone, or anyone choose to depart this life that God gave us in that way. There must have been something horrible going on inside of her spirit, around her, or within her life for her to choose to go in this way. I hope, in some way, that she found peace, eternal peace with God. • Ava K., fbplugin, No. I think this was written perfectly. Not everyone has time to stop and rescue some nut case while they are on their way to work. They are merely nut cases and attention seekers. That's why they do it during rush hour. Hey everyone, look at me. I'm gonna jump....... • Skyway Bridge, fbplugin, many people fear the bridge. it's very high and the retaining wall is relatively low. the idea of pulling over and going near the edge is out of the question, even in perfect conditions without anyone around. throw in the fact there is someone ready to jump, the idea of getting pulled along for the ride is too daunting a thought. driving on becomes a more natural thing to do. that and the surreal nature of the event, makes thinking out all the possibilities too much to deal with. i'm sure many that simply pass by, later wish they did pull over to help. more. • Samantha D., fbplugin, this was my nana, suffered from severe ptsd. These people aren't attention seekers Ava. They're sick and want the pain to stop, sometimes people feel like there is no other way out. Very sad |
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09.22.17: possible something, 12:55pm unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporter: 09.22.17, JZ, Tampa, FL., (12:55pm, male), Saw an older gentleman with white hair parked at the top of the bridge. He was leaning over the edge and looking down. I called 911 to report a possible jumper. The state highway patrolman I spoke with said they could see the man on their cameras and were taking action to check on him. I am not sure if he jumped or not. By the time I realized what I had seen (which I initially assumed was just a disabled vehicle) I was already nearly over the bridge. any more info is welcome. |
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09.21.17: possible something, female, 11:00pm unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporter: 09.21.17, Brian M., Clermont, Florida, (11:00pm, female, hit water), I saw a young lady, she looked like she was in her teens leaning over looking at the water while I was driving home. She looked tired and as if she was crying but I had no time to stop and help before she jumped over. I'm unsure if she died on impacted or is being searched for. later: missing teen last seen looking over the bridge. Jumped before I was able to stop. I'm unsure if she is currently alive or not. She has short dirty blonde hair around the age of 15. Please if you know if she is okay please please please contact me. any more info is welcome. |
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09.07.17: possible something, 12:00pm unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 09.19.17, anon, There was activity on the bridge NB at approximately 1200 on September 7th. Don’t know the details as we were prepping for Hurricane Irma. The usual were called for a jumper, FFWC USCG MCFD a few engines and patrol cars. Went over the bridge at 1500 and there was still one FHP trooper on center span NB. Not sure if it was a save or a jump. 09.19.17, Den Blinde Raeven,
any more info is welcome. |
| 08.30.17: from under the bridge... |
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08.30.17, ALZ, Just FYI. Approximately 1:45 pm 8/30/17 We were asked to assist the sheriff in transporting two bodies from the rocks of the main column (south)to their vessel. They stated one body had been there for a couple of months, and the other a couple of weeks, they did not mention the sex of either. a comment: 06.06.18, Stephanie V.-G., facebook, This is true. One of the individuals was my cousin. He fell on the rocks and that’s the reason they couldn’t find his body. The other body was that of a female who went missing in March. He jumped August 12, 2017. What I want to know is how many more deaths does it take for someone to make changes to this damn bridge! This is sad. 08.31.17, A Friend, Cleveland, Ohio, regarding: One of the Bodies Found Yesterday, The body that was found yesterday I'm told was identified as Tom Letterle who jumped a few months ago. May he rest in peace. 08.31.17, anon, You were clearly trolled by a low life loser. No law enforcement would ask a non law enforcement person to help recover any bodies. The only case would be if that person was suspected to be still alive. they would never ask this of a private party (once confirmed dead) because they could interfere with the investigation. I like your site, have for years. Makes me want to help others who have been, or are in the same dark mind set I once was. thanks (we always look at those type of reports as such, but thought we would put it out there to see what's shaking. we agree with you, handling of the dead has strict protocol and that protocol does not involve random public stumbling by and grabbing weeks old remains. thanks for your kind words.) 08.31.17, ALZ, We had a boat able to nose up to the main pier rip rap... No troll here idiot. later: We work under this stinking bridge every damn day! I take offence to you anon and this page admin. Like I want to report this crap! Our lives are at stake as well. Do we fear those jumping will land on us??? One a few months ago, landed 50' from our boat! Good G-d! I'm posting real happenings. (if you could see your post as us regular people do, you might see where we are coming from. let's all step away from the edge and settle down. we have been trolled before, so please excuse our initial response. we try to remain vague and unassuming when we have absolutely no other confirmation. being as you work under the bridge, perhaps you're not the random public we thought you were. it's not like the authorities call us on the jumper hotline with all the updates. finally, we do hope you continue your under the bridge work safely and that no more jumpers come your way.) any more info/commentation is welcome. |
| 08.30.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, DECEASED PERSON, SKYWAY BG, 1105, 1720, 6h15m |
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08.12.17: jumper, 5:40am, male, hit water, died, body found
sometime later Miguel Angelo Rivera |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 08.12.17, Firebelly, St. Pete, Helicopter in the air. Bunch of red flashes on the bridge. Possible jumper? 08.12.17, Travis, Largo, FL., Possible Jumper, Empty vehicle at Northside of skyway just before the top headed southbound 3 cruisers and one u marked all lit up with cherries and berries at 5:40 a.m. later: While driving South just near the north side of top of bridge there were three police cruisers lit up as well as one unmarked Cruiser lit up and a possible dark green four-door sedan that appeared to be empty. 08.12.17, Curtis L., facebook, Saw the car and two troopers at 5am this morning 08.13.17, Deborah P., facebook, there's a post I saw on my timeline where a guys is missing and his car was parked on the skyway. 08.15.17, Da 1 and only, Tampa, FL., regarding: Possible jumper. I want to know if anyone saw a possible jumper slim build, wearing a white t-shirt and blue jeans on the morning of Saturday 08/12/17 between the hours of 12:30am to 2:00am. Vehicle recovered but no sign of victim later: What is the possibility that if someone jumps, that there body is recovered? And in your past time working with this how long does it normally take to be found or what's the longest time frame of someone who has jumped? (it's completely possible that the incident you saw was the same one being processed not all that many hours later, especially when it's in the dead of night and the jumper has not been found. it's also possible that one incident spawned another. that has happened before as well. unless we get more substantial reporting, it's about all we know. bodies are usually recovered the same day. however, it can sometimes take a couple days or longer for some. there have been others that have never been recovered. we imagine those are the most distressing to those left behind. it's one thing to lose someone to suicide, but to never find the body is just another kick in the head.) 08.18.17, anon, St. Petersburg, Going over bridge at 2:00am and there were 4 or 5 police cars and an ambulance. I'm not sure if that means they were able to get the person to the hospital before they jumped or what. Due to other reports of authorities still being there hours later, I'm guessing not. 08.19.17, Gloria F., facebook, Incident on 8/12, His name is Miguel Rivera. he is the father to my friend's children. If anyone knows anything please let me know. any more info is welcome. |
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| 08.12.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, MISSING PERSONS - ADULT ENDANGERED, SKYWAY BG, 0214, 0829, 6h15m | |||
Miguel Angelo Rivera
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08.10.17: possible jumper, 5:25pm unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 08.10.17, B dehl, Tampa, FL., Possible jumper - a ton of police (state troppers, st pete, manatee, etc...) at approximately 5:25pm on 8/10/17. Some were out of their cruisers and looking over the side of the bridge 08.10.17, Elle, Palmetto, fl., I was heading south on the skyway bridge through a massive traffic jam. There were three police cars at the top of the bridge, with cops looking over the edge. There was also a police boat in the water. 08.10.17, Sherri H., (6:00pm ), I was stuck in a backup on the Skyway around 6pm on 8/10. I noticed the police boat speeding away with lights flashing and the police helicopter circling the water around the bridge. They both left the scene, so I am not sure what happened. By the time I made it to the top of the bridge, there was nothing there. Something happened, but I am not sure what it was. any more info is welcome. |
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08.08.17: jumper, 7:20pm, female, died, body found Lisa Allison Tito, 51 |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 08.08.17, Deion S., St Pete Beach, 7:20pm someone just jumped off the skyway Southbound multiple vehicles stopped on shoulder traffic is slow and first responders arriving on scene 08.08.17, Cindy K., Palm Harbor, Fl., Possible jumper body in water, IONTB is reporting recreational boater finding body in water below bridge. 8/8/17 @8pm 08.08.17, BILL E., RIVERVIEW, FL., (7:15pm, died, body found), HILLSBOROUGH CO POLICE SCANNER body recovered by personal boat & turned over to Fb11 & then to O'Neills. 08.08.17, Lee, Tonight around 7:15 a woman jumped from the bridge, she was found by a boat that was fishing and taken back to an ambulance. 08.08.17, Lauren M., St. Petersburg, Florida, Jumper at skyway bridge, I was traveling nother bound on skyway bridge and seen a four door small dark blue SUV 2010-12 yr, parked on right side of the bridge. At 7:08 pm on Tuesday Aug 8 2017, a lady was peering over the bridge and then proceeded to climb over the ledge (sitting with feet hanging over the side). Immediately after she positioned her self to jump two trucks pulled over to try and save her. The lady was about 5'7 with gray short hair and a slender build. Possibly in her 50s. I seen HFP, fire truck and EMS where traveling south bound approximately 7:16. They where not going that fast. Maybe 15-20 miles over the speed limit. Does anyone know what happened? 08.09.17, Jay, St. Petersburg, Driving over the skyway yesterday 8/8 and there were 3 empty vehicles assuming 2 were witnesses of a jumper but I am thinking the blue Pacifica was the one with the jumper being that the other 2 vehicles were both behind it. Police were looking over on both sides and a cruise ship was passing at the time. Anyone hear about this!? 08.09.17, Andy S., St. Pete, Yesterday evening I say a lady behind her car on the top of Skyway Bridge. I slowed to help her and she stepped to the edge a looked over then she started to put her leg on edge. I pulled over and stopped in front of her car. She then put put her other leg on wall and sat there. I walked to the back of my truck then I asked her if she wanted to talk. She looked at me then jumped. She is in my prayers and I will never forget her face. If anyone knows her name please email me. 08.09.17, Andy S., St. Petersburg, (08.08.17, 6:30pm, female, no crisis phones, hit water, died, body found), I was the witness. I tried to help her and she jumped anyway. I will give details if needed. I was hoping someone knew her name. 08.11.17, Andy S., St. Petersburg, Her name is Lisa Allison Tito from Parrish Florida. I was able to speak to her family this afternoon. Apparently she was dealing with some depression and had been for awhile. Here is what happened. I was driving home from work north on the skyway bridge. I saw a car parked on the side of the bridge at the top and it's was traveling north as a lady got out walked around the rear of the vehicle and looked over the ledge. As I slowed she looked at me and put her right leg onto the ledge I immediately pulled over in front of her vehicle and stopped. I looked in my rearview mirror because I was parked in front of her and saw her put her left leg on the ledge I stepped out of my truck when I got to the rear of the truck to speak to her she looked me directly in the eyes and slid off the wall. If was frozen. When I looked over the wall I saw her come up floating facedown. Myself and another witness stayed with her to keep an an eye her as she floated out via the current. We were able to get the attention of two gentlemen fishing who went out and stayed with her until the sheriffs department arrived to recover her. As horrible as it is I feel that it's important for her family and everyone to know that we stayed with her the best we could until she was taken care of. Not only is she a wife, but a mother and grandmother. If you post this please remind all that throughout the top of the skyway bridge their are red call boxes, they give you access to a direct line to a counselor I don't know if it would help in this situation. My heart aches for her and her family. I wish there was something more that I could have done. Below is her obituary. Services are tomorrow. any more info is welcome. |
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| 08.08.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, SUICIDE ATTEMPT, SKYWAY BG, 1923, 2345, 4h22m | |||
| 08.08.17, iontb/fb • iontb.com, Skyway Bridge: Recreational boater with a body below the bridge. Fire rescue and law enforcement arriving. later: Woman deceased | |||
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08.12.17, Jayne, Teaneck, NJ., This is a strange web page. I understand the reporting, it is really scary that this bridge is well known for this. Why do they not have Patrol like the Golden Gate Bridge? How many people have to die? Lisa Welden Tito was a friend to all in Teaneck NJ. I don't think any of us knew the pain she was in for so long. I have no words. It is a tragic ending to a life! A life that mattered even when she didn't believe that. Sadly depression and suicide can run in families. Her brother took his own life a few years back. I wish someone had the words or the actions to get through to her to make sure she knew she mattered even if she didn't think so. My prayers are with her family as well as those who actually tried to help and witnessed this tragic death. ("strange" is mild, compared to other less savory descriptions. there are patrols on the bridge, but being as the bridge is an interstate roadway, there is no foot traffic like on the golden gate. how many more people have to die before they finally do something is anyone's guess. we have been yelling about doing something for a long time. something will eventually get done, but sadly, there will be many more jumpers until then. we are sorry you lost your friend.) facebook article posts |
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08.07.17: civilian save, man hires uber to take him to his
suicide jump, 8:32pm died 08.14.17 Randolph Lee Ramsey II, 28 |
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thank you, jumpsave reporter: 08.10.17, Rick H., Saint Petersburg, (male, never jumped), Apparently this man doesn't really have a brain tumor, but according to his sister does suffer from depression, and did attempt to take his life the week prior leading up to this event. 08.18.17, anon, Florida, regarding: 8/7/17 attempt, The young man who attempted to reach the Skyway on 8/7, but fled from FHP/Sunstar at the fishing pier was my friend. He passed away this past weekend. (this is unconfirmed.) any more info is welcome. |
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08.07.17, iontb/fb • iontb.com, Man Fleeing from FHP Troopers Nearly Drowns on South Side of the Sunshine Skyway FHP Troopers were alerted to an incident at the north rest area of the Skyway Bridge on August 7, 2017, at approximately 8:32 p.m. According to Troopers, an adult male had been dropped off by an Uber driver at the south rest area just north of the Skyway Bridge. Concerned about the situation and safety of the passenger, the Uber driver notified law enforcement of the situation. After leaving the Uber driver, the adult male subject walked south from the rest area to the north fishing pier where FHP Troopers soon encountered the subject. The subject fled to the water nearby as Troopers attempted to converse with him. Despite commands from the Troopers to return, the subject continued into the water and submerged himself. Both FHP Troopers entered the water and retrieved the subject who was then unconscious. The Troopers provided CPR until relieved by responding EMS crews who later transported the subject to Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. The subject was reportedly revived and is now listed in stable condition. 08.07.17, wfla.com, ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Florida Highway Patrol troopers were involved in an incident near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge Monday night. FHP said a man was dropped off by an Uber driver at the south rest area just north of the Skyway Bridge. Concerned about the situation, the driver notified law enforcement. The man walked south from the rest area to the north fishing pier, where FHP troopers found him. As troopers talked to him, the man fled to the water nearby. Despite commands from troopers, the subject submerged himself. Both FHP troopers entered the water and retrieved the man, who was unconscious. The troopers provided CPR until EMS crews responded. The man was taken to Bayfront Medical Center where he is in stable condition. 08.08.17, tampabay.com, ST. PETERSBURG - Uber driver Chad Farley suspected something was wrong Monday night when a passenger asked to be dropped off in the middle of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. There's no walkway for pedestrians along the iconic span, nowhere even to step safely at the top. Walking on the Skyway 200 feet above the water is something people do when they're contemplating a jump to their death, from the place that holds the grim distinction as Florida's top spot for suicide. So instead, Farley, an Uber driver for the past year, chatted up the passenger, learned he had brain cancer, prayed with the man, held his hand — even snapped a photo of them smiling together before dropping him off at the rest stop to the north of the bridge. Farley, 41, of Gulfport, told the man, who held up a peace sign in the photo, that he just wanted to remember what he looked like. What he really wanted was something to show authorities once he called 911. Farley's suspicions proved correct. His call brought state troopers who ended up rescuing the 28-year-old St. Petersburg man after he entered the water near the pier. "He was getting out, but before he did, I told him how much God loves him," Farley told the Tampa Bay Times. "I just held out my hand, and when he gave me his hand it was shaking like an uneven wheel on a car going down the highway, it was shaking so badly." Sgt. Steve Gaskins, spokesman for the Florida Highway Patrol, said the two troopers — Cpl. Robert Friesen and Trooper Kristen Middleton — "did an outstanding job." Gaskins also praised Farley for reaching out to authorities with his concerns about his troubled passenger. We're the ones trained to deal with people in these kinds of situations," Gaskins said. Uber, in a statement to the Times, said the company advises drivers to call 911 if faced with an urgent or emergency situation. "We deeply appreciate Mr. Farley's quick thinking and compassion for his rider," Uber said, "as well as law enforcement's fast response." The man was listed in critical but stable condition at Bayfront Medical Center on Tuesday, Gaskins said. The troopers were not injured. Farley described how the ride unfolded. "I picked him up from his house and he started the conversation, telling me he'd gotten the news from his doctor that he had brain cancer ... I told him about my mother, who passed from cancer. I asked him if he was in school and he said yes, that he wanted to be a counselor, that he wanted to help hopeless people. I commended him for that." But Farley grew concerned late into the ride when he realized the destination his passenger had entered into the Uber app was right in the center of the bridge — and the passenger provided an unbelievable explanation: He planned to call an ambulance from the bridge to take him to his doctor in Tampa, as ordered by the doctor. Farley said he stopped at a bridge toll booth and "made eye signals" to the attendant that "something was up with my passenger." After getting his passenger to repeat the strange story to workers there, a supervisor at the booth advised that he proceed to the safety of the rest area near the pier and use the phone there instead. Once there, driver and passenger resumed their conversation. The man assured Farley he wouldn't jump, "but I could tell he was lying." Photo taken, the man got out of the car around 8:30 p.m. and Farley called 911. He was asked to send over the photo. Later, he got a call back saying the man had been pulled from the water but was okay. "I don't know why anyone in their right mind would have dropped him off at the top of the bridge, but if he'd gotten up there, I think he'd be dead now," Farley said. The highway patrol provided this account of what happened in between. The troopers located the man and began talking to him, but he walked away and entered the water near a fishing pier entrance off southbound I-275. He ignored their pleas to return and submerged himself. The troopers removed gear and went underwater to search for him. After several minutes, they found him, unconscious, brought him the surface and administered CPR until medical responders arrived. Farley said he plans to visit the man in the hospital, and had called the highway patrol to find out his name. The Uber app erases that information once a dropoff is made. A leader at Community Bible Baptist Church, Farley said he treats his Uber driving as an extension of his ministry. "Riders open up to you about a lot of things you wouldn't expect them to tell strangers," he said. " I keep my church business card in the car. If someone is hurting, I give it to them." 08.09.17, youtube.com/FOX13TampaBay, more: google.com |
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uber driver tells his story: open the image for the full story. facebook article posts |
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08.04.17: possible something unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporter: 08.05.17, Dylan, Saint Petersburg, August 4th, 2017: Fishing from shore near Skyway Bridge (6pm), when firetrucks came with sirens screaming and then positioned to block entrance to south-side bridge traffic. Many police on seen as well, waiting for other source of information to fill in the blanks. Hopefully not another tragedy! any more info is welcome. |
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08.02.17: possible something unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 08.02.17, Jamie A., Possible jumper, Tonight I was heading south on the skyway at approximately 1:40am. There were 2 troopers and a tow truck was just leaving the bridge span. It was an SUV. Not sure if anything happened.. 08.03.17, CommuterB, Bradenton, Florida, regarding: bridge 08-02-2017 activity Northbound, At approximately 9:00-9:15 p.m., I was traveling Southbound over the Skyway, when I saw what appeared to be two vehicles parked just beyond the bridge peak with a group of at least four people standing by the vehicles, (near one of the help call phones perhaps?) on the North bound side of the bridge. I saw a State trooper arrive. As I continued Southbound I saw Emergency Response vehicles Northbound to include an Ambulance and a Fire Truck. I'm guessing, possible jumper with witnesses. any more info is welcome. |
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07.21.17: possible something unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporter: 07.22.17, anon, 
acronymsvideo taken from the fishing pier. any more info is welcome. |
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07.10.17: jumper, 12:30am, male, died, body found 07.12.17 Ryan Andrew Mogensen, 28 |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 07.10.17, Becky G., iontb/fb, I drove by a few hours ago. Red truck on top of bridge 07.10.17, JoJo, bellonia, (12:30am), me saw it in me car 07.10.17, Bill E., Riverview, Fl., HCSO chopper asked to assist in search for jumper not found yet. Chopper pilot asked for clothing description. Response was that victim is probably naked. Only description given....'white male, approx 5'8"'. Picking up search that was stopped @ 3am this morning. 07.10.17, Geneva J., iontb/fb, Northbound. Maroon truck. Newer. Maybe an extended cab if I remember correctly. We saw it last night too driving back to st Pete.
07.10.17, anon, This is the final post and suicide letter of Ryan Mogensen. Please share so that people become aware of the poor handling by the pinellas park police, judges, and lawyers in his case. Ryan Mogensen was a good man who served over 7 years for his country, he made a horrible mistake and didn't deserve to end his life the way he did.  Ryan posted a five part photo story: 1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 any more info is welcome. |
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07.10.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, SUICIDE ATTEMPT, SKYWAY BG, 0017, 0742, 7h25m 07.10.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, INFORMATION, SKYWAY BG, 0854, 1125, 2h31m 07.12.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, DECEASED PERSON, SKYWAY BG, 0926, 1208, 2h42m |
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these IONTB articles contain many very emotionally
charged comments. 07.10.17, iontb/fb, Skyway Bridge: First responders still at the bridge following reports of a person jumping shortly after midnight later: Person jumped as fire rescue was responding. Not located immediately. Search became only a recovery operation and extended search initiated. Unsure if located yet. 07.10.17, iontb/fb • iontb.com, Man Accused of Fatal Hit-and-Run Crash in Pinellas Park Jumps from Skyway Bridge (these articles may or may not be available at this time.) 07.12.17, iontb/fb, Marine units working to recover a body located near the Skyway shipping channel 07.13.17, iontb/fb, Yesterday morning at approximately 9:30 a.m. the body of an adult male was recovered from the water of Tampa Bay. This morning the Hillsborough County Medical Examiner's Office was able to positively identify the deceased subject as being Ryan Andrew Mogensen. Mr. Mogensen's vehicle was located on top of the Skyway Bridge on July 10, 2017. 07.13.17, baynews9.com, Man involved in fatal hit-and-run jumps off Skyway Bridge Police said a Pinellas Park man accused of a fatal hit-and-run committed suicide this week by jumping off the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Twenty-eight-year-old Ryan Mogensen faced a criminal trial for leaving the scene of a crash involving death. Pinellas Park police confirmed Thursday that Mogensen parked his car at the top of the Skyway Bridge on Monday and jumped off. His body was found in the water on Wednesday. Authorities say Mogensen hit and killed 61-year-old John Ryan, who was riding on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. The incident happened May 30. Mogensen took off from the scene, according to investigators, and tried to hide his damaged Corvette in his garage at a nearby apartment complex. Robert Yoho was friends with Ryan and says he read Mogensen's suicide note. "Not once did he show any remorse for what had happened about him hitting J.C. or whatever happened, and I just don't understand why he couldn't say he was sorry," Yoho said. "He didn't need to commit suicide. He just needed to stand up and face his punishment and move on." Sgt. Mike Lynch said Pinellas Park police haven't seen something like this happen anytime recently and called it a tragic situation. "We had a very good case," he said. "Our investigators worked very diligently and very hard to wrap up this particular case, and certainly the conclusion is not what certainly anybody ever wants." Yoho said he feels bad for both families. "J.C. is dearly missed and I'm sure that (Mogensen) is going to be missed by some of his friends and his family," he said. Mogensen posted a $100,000 bond last month and got out of the Pinellas jail. He had a pre-trial court hearing scheduled this week. Bay News 9 was unable to reach Mogensen's family for comment. |
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about his 05.30.17 hit and run accident: 05.30.17, iontb/fb, Motorcycle Crash Leaves One Man Dead in Pinellas Park 05.30.17, iontb/fb, Arrest Made in the Hit and Run Crash 05.30.17, sheriff's charge report 05.31.17, tbreporter.com, Man Accused in Hit and Run That Killed Motorcyclist Parts belonging to a black Corvette were found at the scene, Pinellas Park police said. PINELLAS PARK – A man has been arrested in connection with a hit and run crash Tuesday (May 30) that killed a motorcycle driver, Pinellas Park police said. John Carl Ryan, 61, of Pinellas Park, died at the scene early Tuesday morning. Ryan Andrew Mogensen, 28, of Pinellas Park, was arrested Tuesday afternoon. Mogenson was charged with one count of leaving the scene of a crash with serious bodily injury or death and three counts of leaving the scene of a crash with property damage. The crash happened about 12:30 a.m. in the 5500 block of 110 Avenue N. Officers were called to the scene in what originally believed to be a crash involving a 1992 Harley Davidson motorcycle that struck a parked 2014 Hyundai. During the investigation, officers found parts belonging to another vehicle that they were able to identify as belonging to a black 2001 Chevrolet Corvette. Through a tip and other leads, police said they learned that a vehicle matching this description was scene pulling into Plantation Gardens apartment complex, which is directly across the street from the original crash location. Officers worked throughout the day to develop a lead on the location of Mogensen and his Corvette. Police said they contacted Mogensen in the complex at which time he refused to cooperate with investigators about the whereabouts of his vehicle. Officers worked with the Pinellas County State Attorney’s Office in obtaining a search warrant for a garage on the apartment complex property that Mogensen uses. About 5:30 p.m. police served the search warrant on Mogensen’s garage where, they said, they found a 2001 Corvette with vehicle damage consistent with the vehicle parts found at the crash scene. The Corvette was seized as evidence and processing of the car continues. After the car was found in his garage Mogensen was interviewed, Police said he admitted knowing that he struck the motorcycle in the early morning hours. 06.01.17, baynews9.com, man involved in fatal hit-and-run makes 1st court appearance A Pinellas Park man who’s accused of leaving the scene of a motorcycle crash involving death and hiding his car in a garage made his first appearance in court on Wednesday. Ryan Mogensen, 28, is being held in the Pinellas Jail on more than $100,000 bond for multiple charges. Mogensen was driving a black 2001 corvette when he struck and killed John Ryan, 61, who was riding a Harley Davidson motorcycle on the 5500 block of 110 Avenue in Pinellas Park on Tuesday at 12:30 a.m., according to a police report. "He loved his bike," said the victim’s boss, Robert Yoho. "He didn’t ride fast. He just rode." Initially, police believed the crash only involved the motorcycle hitting a parked car. Officers then found pieces of Mogensen's corvette at the scene. Sgt. Mike Lynch said a resident saw Mogensen drive away from the scene to the Plantation Gardens apartment complex across the street from the crash location. Lynch said investigators made contact with Mogensen at the apartment complex, who at that point refused to cooperate about the whereabouts of his vehicle. Officers obtained a search warrant for Mogensen’s garage at 5:30 p.m. and discovered the black corvette with vehicle damage consistent with the parts found at the crash scene, according to police. Police said Mogensen was interviewed and admitted to knowing that he struck the motorcycle in the early morning hours. "You can still stop and try to save the life that you just ruined," Yoho said. Mogensen was arrested on three counts of leaving the scene of a crash involving property damage and leaving the scene of a crash involving death. Yoho, who owns the Showtime Speedway where Ryan worked and liked to race cars, said he’s going to hold a fundraiser for the family this weekend. "This Saturday night we’re going to have a little celebration of life out here," he said. "We’re going to try and get some extra cars out here and get a big field and maybe throw some extra money at the class, put a little entry fee and donate that to the family to help with funeral costs."
►gofundme.com, donate to the John "JC" Ryan campaign◄ |
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07.10.17, Imsosorry, I am so sorry. I heard my husband's friend and classmate jumped in the early morning hours of 7/10/2017. RIP Mogee A close Friend of mine jumped to her death off this bridge a few years ago. She left four beautiful children behind. 07.10.17, Josh Ryan, iontb/fb, Well I have to say he deserved to die I'm sorry it's a cowards way out but this man killed my father on May 30th in Pinellas Park, so congrats man you did great on successfully killing yourself cause I hoped that you spent every last day on,your life behind bars but this works to :) (while we'd like to think we'd be compassionate under these circumstances, no doubt we would feel exactly like you, if we were in your shoes. we truly hope you cope with what you were dealt.) 07.12.17, Audra O., iontb/fb, See, once again NOT ONE THING on the local news that I saw or heard. You would think that if this guy commited a crime and THAT original story was on the news, then THIS story of him jumping would be on the news. NOPE!! The Skyway bridge nobody talks about, unless a barge rams it then its all over the front pages or there's a traffic issue (related to a jumper but they never mention that). But let's not talk about the suicides surrounding this bridge. Shhhh... we can't talk about something so taboo! (if it were not for IONTB, this story could be hidden away as well. if it were not for the tragic backstory, no doubt it would be. the media is becoming less relevant as time goes on. it's up to the individual to seek out the news as best they can.) facebook article posts |
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07.06.17: jumper, 3:00pm, male, hit water, lived, condition
unknown Dilworth (unconfirmed) |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 07.06.17, AdventureRobin, St Petersburg, Just went over bridge, police cars, firetruck and emergency crew on water. Does anyone know what has happened? 07.06.17, Andrew V., facebook, Skyway Jumper.....survived End route to O'neills Marina by boat. Bayflight end route to bring patient to Bayfront Medical Center. Pinellas 911 site shows all units @ scenes Grid 723s. 07.06.17, Crickett, St pete., (4:00pm, hit water) 07.06.17, Kendall, Sarasota, possible jumper. Empty truck on the side with two police. Also saw boats and helicopters 07.06.17, Mike H., Sarasota, Fl., (male), Drove over Skyway around 3:30 PM, noticed a chevy pickup truck parked on the north bound side with several police and highway patrol behind and cops looking over the edge of the bridge. Also could see patrol boats in the water. Assume a jumper? Any news? 07.06.17, Lindsey, St. Petersburg, I drove across the Skyway around 3:30. There was unusual traffic on the way up the bridge, heading from Bradenton to St. Pete. Once I reached the top, I noticed a police car and an empty gold Chevy truck with no one inside. People were looking over the side into the water and there was a helicopter. I hope the person is okay. 07.06.17, Lex, St Petersburg, I was among one of the boats that witnessed jumper approx 3pm and assisted in rescue, he was alive and responsive. Fire rescue met en route to O'Neils and took him in rest of the way. 07.07.17, Eric S., St Petersburg, 7/6/17 Crossing bridge northbound at 3:00pm. Saw pickup truck parked by side of road and a black man with white T shirt looking over wall. As I passed he climbed up on the wall and jumped off without hesitation. 07.07.17, Rebecca C., Saint Petersburg, FL., facebook.com, At 3 p.m. yesterday coming back for my daily route over the skyway northbound cars braking like you see everyday not an unusual occurrence, I see a blue truck on the side in the emergency Lane you hear it all the time people jumping from the skyway but when you witness it it's a whole different perspective. As I'm driving by eyewitness the man jumping on the ledge squatting down it happened so fast and as is jumping my heart is pounding out of my chest I pull over still shaking I called 911 there was another car that saw it pulled over in front of me one of them got out looked over the side shook his head then left I'm on the phone with the dispatcher still shaking it's something I never want to experience again I had a very hard time with it yesterday I tried to sleep last night but every time I would shut my eyes all I can see is that visual of him going over the side. I looked this morning on Google Skyway jumpers apparently a boater rescued him and he survived. (we could only wish we were 'Google Skyway jumpers') any more info is welcome. |
| 07.06.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, ASSIST OTHER AGENCY, SKYWAY BG, 1503, 1656, 1h53m |
| 07.06.17, iontb/fb • iontb.com, Skyway Bridge: Reports of a recreational boat with a subject the jumped from the bridge. Watch for slowdowns especially northbound. later: Patient enroute to Bayfront Health St. Petersburg |
| facebook article posts |
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06.26.17: jumper, 8:20am, male, hit water, died, body found Christopher Aaron 'Cheech' Rodriguez, 29 |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 06.26.17, Sally G., St Pete, (8:20am), Passed the empty car - silver or beige smaller Infiniti. FHP was just starting up hump as I approached the rest area. 06.26.17, D. M. T., Parrish, Fl., (8:45am, hit water), I was driving to work today and the FHP were on both sides of the skyway looking over the sides. There was a park grey sedan at the top with no one in it. 06.26.17, Sherri H., (8:29am), Hi, I took the attached picture this morning on the top of the Skyway heading north. There was an empty car, a Road Ranger, and an FHP vehicle parked on the side of the road, and the Ranger was looking over the side of the bridge. At the bottom of the bridge, I saw a fire engine and more emergency vehicles heading to the bridge with their lights flashing.  06.26.17, anon, something is up, Patient with FB11 as of 0920. Not a good sign. Heard the sirens around 0830’ish  06.26.17, CJ, Clearwater, White empty car with police vehicle on top of bridge. 06.26.17, Nichole L., facebook, Male jumper this morning. Body recovered. Deceased. 06.26.17, MB, St. Pete, I was stuck in traffic for about 20 minutes on the bridge this morning around 8:30 driving Southbound. Once I got to the top of the bridge, there were multiple police cars and a fire truck on both north and south bound sides of the bridge. I am hoping and praying no one jumped off the bridge this morning. I have had a pit in my stomach all morning. 06.26.17, anon, On my way to work at the Skyway Fishing Piers. Definate jumper. 1st responders and rescue efforts looking over the railing.  06.26.17, Aboona T., Sun City Center, (8:10am, male, died, body found), I was approximately 6 cars behind the jumper's vehicle. I saw him run in front of his vehicle and immediately jumped over the wall. I immediately contacted FHP to report the incident. I later called FHP for an update and was told that jumper had died and body was recovered. So sorry that the person experienced such personal pain that he made this decision. I think of him in prayer as well as his family/friends. 06.26.17, anon, 6s any more info is welcome. |
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| 06.26.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, DECEASED PERSON, SKYWAY BG, 0830, 1326, 4h54m | |||
| 06.26.17, iontb/fb • iontb.com, Skyway Bridge: Slowdowns expected as emergency crews are responding to reports of person that jumped from the northbound span of the bridge later: Crews searching the water for the man that jumped. later: Update 9 a.m. Subject located and deceased | |||
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06.28.17, JoELLy, Tampa, Florida, I'm shocked my prayers go to his family he was a professional barber at Fadecit barber shop Tampa Florida he has cut my son multiple times chris was sharp this was so unexpected I wish these things could be avoided no one deserve to loose there life... facebook article posts |
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06.10.17: possible something unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporter: 06.11.17, amber, palmetto, (06.10.17, 11:30pm), I was driving home from a concert in Clearwater with my family in the van. After we went through the Sunpass lanes (we were headed southbound)we got into the right line. The SUV or minivan in front of us was all over the road. I thought, man this person must be drunk. I told my husband I was going to hang back to be safe and slowed down. This person stayed directly in front of us and put their Right turn signal and swerved right up to the rail and slammed on their brakes. My husband called 911. We never saw if the person got out, or what happened. We had our children in the backseat and luckily they didn't see or understand anything that was happening! My husband and I were very shaken. The extremely ironic thing is that we were stuck in the traffic on the way to the concert from the incident that occurred earlier in the day. any more info is welcome. |
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06.10.17: jumper, 2:29pm, female, died, body found Dorinda Kay Green Harris, 55 |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 06.10.17, KS., St pete., (2:30pm), Lots of cars stopped on north bound side of bridge with people out, looking over side of bridge. LEO is responding now, travelling southbound on 275 06.10.17, Kevin C., facebook, I think someone just jumped about 10 mins ago. Just crossed the bridge and there were 8-10 cars with people looking over the side in a certain direction, a few with phones recording something. Several police cars and a few fire rescue cars also flew in that direction
06.11.17, DB, St. Pete, I was in the inside lane of the bridge heading northbound. I saw the burgundy vehicle parked at the top of the bridge with a blonde woman standing next to her vehicle. She was wearing a pink colored top and dark colored pants. I saw her put her leg over the rail and then she was gone. Due to the weather conditions at the time it was unsafe to pull over and I had my 5 year old in the car with me. So very sad. 06.11.17, Bruha U., facebook, I drive by her as she walked to the back of her car, told my girl. Only reason people stop at the top is to jump! Wow, this is crazy Valisa W., fb plug in, My son and I witnessed this also. We were heading SB thought it strange a semi stopped at top, saw her car Then noticed the lady sitting on the edge. Several other caring people stopped also. I prayed they could talk her down. So sad. I would never think or say the Cold/ mean comment I just read. Remember not all are as fortunate As some. I pray for her family and friends. It really broke my heart! |
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06.10.17,
flhsmv.gov/fhp 06.10.17, pinellascounty.org • acronyms  06.10.17, pcsoweb.com  06.10.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, SUICIDE ATTEMPT, SKYWAY BG, 1431, 2123, 6h52m |
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06.10.17, iontb/fb • iontb.com, Skyway Bridge: Fire responders arriving on-scene on and below the bridge for reports of person who jumped from the bridge. later: Update 2:55 p.m.: Woman's body recovered. Deceased 06.10.17, mysuncoast.com, Suicide reported on Sunshine Skyway bridge Saturday afternoon, ST. PETE, FL (WWSB) - Southbound lanes on the Sunshine Skyway bridge were temporarily closed Saturday after reports revealed an individual committed suicide off the bridge. Officers arrived on the scene around 2:36 p.m. It took them only seven minutes to arrive. The identity of the individual was not released. More information will be provided as it becomes available. The Skyway is also under a high wind advisory. If using the bridge, drive carefully. 06.12.17, theledger.com, Police: Auburndale woman jumped from Skyway Posted Jun 12, 2017 at 8:45 PM, Updated Jun 13, 2017 at 2:19 PM ST. PETERSBURG — A 55-year-old Auburndale woman died Saturday after jumping from the Sunshine Skyway bridge near St. Petersburg. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has identified the victim as Dorinda L. Harris of Old Berkley Road. Deputies reported she died at the scene. a comment from the story: 06.15.17, I'm her husband. I went through this every day for almost a year since this started. She was just like everyone else and then one day she began to change. She came to me and told me something was wrong. We looked for answers. We went to every appointment. To be honest the mental health professionals are just professional guessers. They say try this lets try that. Just when we thought we had gotten some positive results they decided to change her medication again. Even against my wishes. They said give it time to work. She lost all the ground she had gained in less than a month. At some point last year something broke, malfunctioned or short circuited inside her head. A chemical imbalance a breakdown of some sort. I did the best I could in taking care of her and was hoping we would eventually find an answer. I did not matter how good she had it or how much her family loved her. Her mind would not let her understand that. A switch had been flipped and we were just unable to switch it back. This was no fault of hers. She had no control over it. I dont know how she managed to drive that far in the condition she was in. Maybe that part of her brain was still working correctly? I want all who reads this to know that she was a wonderful wife and mother. On the very day she died she made my breakfast as she had every day we were married, packed my lunch and kissed me goodbye as I went to work. At some point after that she began having a bad day. Her anxiety level skyrocketed and she decided she would find relief her way. I wish she would have called me or anyone for help but then again I have a thousand wishes. Like I wish the road ranger that talked to her on the bridge could have noticed something was wrong when she told him the payphone wasn't working. She had to have shown obvious signs of impairment but he told her it wasn't a pay phone and let her get in her car and drive off only to turn around. I wish just one of all the people who said they saw her before she jumped would have pulled over and intervened. I can tell you she would have responded. Instead everyone just drove by. Like the person who had their child in the car saw her and told the child that she was going to jump but kept driving and did nothing. Would have only taken a second. However plenty of people stopped and whipped out the cell phones to record after the fact. She was a wonderful wife my heart aches as I deal with this loss. My world is darker without her shining light. I love you honey. |
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06.10.17, Megan J., iontb/fb, Unfortunately I was there. Already terrified of that bridge due to my friends taking their lives there. They were looking inside the empty car (megan is referring to the 1993 tandem lovers' suicide jump, Donna Marie Klein, 16 • Marc Weigel, 15) 06.12.17, Linda W. C., facebook, This has been haunting me for the last few days.. I am saddened by what happened. We were stuck at the end of the bridge when she jumped. We couldn't see what was going on. I hope some of these people who had their phones out were calling 911. What upsets me is that there are individuals out there who jump at the chance to pull out their phones to record something very sad & tragic. Ugh! Sending prayers out for this poor woman and her family. May you be at peace. a reply: 06.12.17, Kevin C., facebook, They were recording. Not one person had the phone to their ear, they were all leaning over the side trying to record it. I saw the jumpers car too, sitting there with its hazards on. I thought someone got out to get a picture of the view. I was wrong 06.12.17, James, To all who read and were affected enough to comment. My wife was a wonderful wife of 20 years total. So much so that I married her a second time. She made breakfast for me in the mornings and sent me to work with lunch every day. She took care of her kids and provided for them until there was nothing left to give and then gave more. Last year she began having a breakdown. We don't know why. We looked to the mental health professionals for help. We got little. They refused to provide medications that may have helped but instead prescribed junk. I told them they didn't work. We were ignored. Recently her medications were changed even as I advised against it. Within a month she has lost all the ground she had gained. She suffered from depression, extreme anxiety and panic disorder. Its been less than a year since this whole ordeal began. Even on her last day she made my breakfast and packed my lunch. She fought the good fight. Her physical injuries and mental struggles were apparently just too much. I was with her day after agonizing day. I held her and loved her through it all. Life is darker now. My shining light has gone out. I love you honey. May God hold on to you tightly. (we are truly sorry for your loss and do hope you cope.) two responses: 06.21.17, V Ward, Dear James, I'm so sorry for your loss and your pain. I was heading South and wished I could of gotten to help your wife I would of tried in a heartbeat. Please believe that some people did stop to try to help I saw it. For those who decided to be truly ignorant and feel the need to record such a sad thing may find themselves on the other end of a terrible situation one day. I wrote the Tampa Bay Times to try to bring the bridge to the forefront for discussion but for some reason the DOT and the county/state Govt. chooses to turn a blind eye to the 300+ people who have jumped from the bridge. We need to go the extra mile with more training, more man power, barriers whatever it takes to save lives on the bridge. I hope you find the strength to pick up the peices, it sounds like it would be what your loving wife would of wanted. God bless you and your family! 06.23.17, Sam, Naples, I just wanted to reach out to James. My family, along with another driver, witnessed your wife seated on the ledge and tried to stop and offer help. Unfortunately, by the time we made it out of our vehicles we were seconds too late. I am so sorry for your loss. I just wanted you to know that there were people stopping to try to help her but we just were not quick enough. I know that this cannot ease your pain but hopefully you can find some comfort in knowing that not everyone just continued to drive past. We said a prayer for your wife at after the incident. Again, I am so sorry for your loss and will pray for you and your family. facebook article posts • Jessica D., fbplugin, prescription medication is almost always involved in mental breakdowns. I wish more people would reconsider heavily before starting up medications that mess with brain activity. It can have dire consequences. May she Rest In Peace. • Valisa W., My son and I witnessed this also. We were heading SB thought it strange a semi stopped at top, saw her car Then noticed the lady sitting on the edge. Several other caring people stopped also. I prayed they could talk her down. So sad. I would never think or say the Cold/ mean comment I just read. Remember not all are as fortunate As some. I pray for her family and friends. It really broke my heart! • Corky E., fbplugin, Thank you, Valisa. She has anger in her heart. You can't say that just talking to someone is going to save you. Again, don't judge when you don't know that person. • Suzanne Z., just so ya'll know, she was physically sick..it was her right. pray for her family |
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06.07.17: possible something, female unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporter: 06.10.17, Sam C., iontb/fb, Had one that survived on Wed. Female, recovered by private fishing boat. Incredible. any more info is welcome. |
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06.05.17: possible something unknown |
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06.05.17, Hillsborough Sheriff,
MENTALLY ILL PERSON / VIOLENT, SKYWAY BG, 1855, 2022,
1h27m any more info is welcome. |
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06.04.17: jumper, female, 8:50am, hit water, died, body found Celia Ruiz-Obregon, 47 |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 06.04.17, Bill E., Riverview, Fl., (female, hit water, died, body found), HCSO report of female jumper from Nortbound lanes. Boaters under bridge have recovered the body. Pinellas Co. EMS now has the body, in route to O'neills. 06.04.17, Michael C., iontb/fb, I went over the bridge an hour ago and there was a white sport utility at the top with a trooper looking over the side, the northbound side 06.04.17, Justin H., iontb/fb, I was on the bridge and witnessed it this morning sad thing is that there was a trooper only a 1/4 mile from her he was in front of me 06.04.17, Jessica, Bradenton, 9am saw trooper and one sheriff along with the white suv with hazard lights. Did not see jumper. 06.04.17, Jessica M., iontb/fb, I was on the bridge around 9. Saw the cop car and fhp along with the SUV and lights blinking. My friend saw the same car there at 6am on her way to the airport. She must of did a lot of thinking any more info is welcome. |
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06.04.17,
flhsmv.gov/fhp 06.04.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, DECEASED PERSON, SKYWAY BG, 0859, 1236, 3h35m |
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| 06.04.17, iontb/fb • iontb.com, Skyway Bridge: Reports of civilian boats working to retrieve subject that reportedly jumped from the bridge. Expect slowdowns and #MoveOver later: Update 9:24 a.m.: St Petersburg Fire Boat met up with civilian boat and crew determined that the woman is deceased. | |||
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06.04.17, Desire Y., iontb/fb, She left behind 3 Beautiful daughters, so sad never imagine it will be her , R. I. P. to my step dad my condolences, to her amazing mom and the rest of her family 06.04.17, Michelle P., iontb/fb, 741741 is a text line for help if you are afraid of talking or don't feel like talking to someone text this number pass it on you just might save a life maybe your own struggle could be helped please remember to think before speaking to someone who says they are at their wit's end just one word could help prevent this tragic thing 741741 06.04.17, Sean T. B., iontb/fb, No suicide isn't funny and I have Major Depression and the bridge would be my choice. (now sean, we've discussed this before and you know the bridge is a poor choice. there will be no bridge jumping for you, mister!) facebook article posts • Elizabeth B., fbplug in, A friend of our family is the boater who found her. He did everything her could to help save her. Thank goodness for him, at least she will get a proper burial. My heart goes out to all, to the friends and family of this beautiful lady, I am so sorry for your loss. An to the two gentlemen who went out of there way to do what was right even though it clearly was a very traumatic event for them, may God give you the peace and strength you need to get past this. You are all our in my prayers. • Olivia G., fbplugin, Im her daughter and i love Celia my mom so much. i could write for hours about the turmoil im going through, but instead i want to make this comment about thanking everyone for theyre overwhelming amount of support and to Liz Bowers and her family members who are the reason that im assured my mom and i are so blessed to know that her last moment was comforted by a compassionate hand. They are so brave, I am sorry they had to see it. Theyre on my list of heros and ill never forget them despite having not met them. thank you everyone for focusing on the good times and not the bad. |
| 05.23.17: article - Suicide and the dark side of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. |
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05.23.17, wtsp.com, TAMPA BAY, FL., With construction underway on safety nets under the Golden Gate Bridge intended to prevent suicides, 10News wanted to know if the Sunshine Skyway Bridge could also install safety measures to stop suicides. If you live in the Bay area, you've likely driven over the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. It's a crucial transportation connector but also a glistening icon. 10News reporter Liz Crawford looked at the dark side of the bridge. About a dozen people take their life every year by jumping off the bridge. Most will not die instantly and sometimes people even survive. In April, work began on a net under the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco to prevent suicides so 10News WTSP wanted to know if more could be done to prevent suicides off the Skyway. WTSP received this response from the Florida Department of Transportation: The safety of the traveling public on the state’s bridges is a top priority of the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). The department has looked at a fencing system on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge in the past, however, FDOT has not found a system that would work and also allow inspection of the bridge. It’s important to note the Golden Gate Bridge has a different deck structure than the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. The Golden Gate Bridge can be inspected by workers below the roadway surface, since the surface is supported by an open steel deck truss. The Sunshine Skyway Bridge is a closed segmental box, and relies on inspection trucks with arms that reach out and under the bridge for a complete inspection. If a fence were to be installed, it could potentially block access for bridge inspection. While researching the topic (on this website), 10News met Debbie Korell. She became a widow seven years ago when her late husband, Todd jumped off the Sunshine Skyway Bridge ending his life. "I woke up in the middle of the night and he was gone," said Debbie. Debbie kept photos and scrapbooks of the happy times with Todd. "Todd was a wonderful person, happy, friendly, cheerful." Debbie says Todd never showed any signs of depression or suicide over the course of their 11-year marriage. "This surprised everyone. Todd was the last person that you would ever expect. We don't put the everyday face on mental illness." Now, Debbie hopes Todd's story can inspire others to seek help. Debbie said, "I wish I had asked Todd, are you in emotional pain? Is there something I can do to help you? Do you need to talk to someone?" Debbie first talked publicly about Todd's suicide in the documentary, Skyway Down created and produced by Sean Michael Davis. WATCH THE DOCUMENTARY HERE: Skyway Down "The film created itself through all the people that were willing to be a part of it," Sean said. Even for Sean, his reason for creating the film was personal. He witnessed a suicide off the Skyway about ten years ago. Feeling helpless, Sean decided to make a film in hopes of deterring others from making the same devastating decision. Sean said, "It's not something people want to discuss. That's why I made the film." Sean met dozens of people through his film and even learned the harsh reality about jumping off the Skyway. It's not quick and painless but rather slow and agonizing. Debbie Korell learned that Todd did not die when he hit the water. "His spleen ruptured, his liver ruptured, one of his kidneys ruptured. He died from massive internal injuries in the water," Debbie told 10News. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the Skyway is the number one bridge for suicide on the East Coast. In 2016, there were 12 suicides, 24 possible suicides, 6 saves, and 1 survivor. (those statistics) There have been 100 suicides in the last decade. CALL 2-1-1 AT THE CRISIS CENTER OF TAMPA BAY FOR HELP 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK (suicide prevention help page) The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay offers phone counseling around the clock. Program Manager, Mordecai Dixon told us when a suicide call comes through, everyone in the contact center knows it. "Each person who calls us has somebody in their life who cares about them," said Dixon. (there are solutions and they are posted here. the will of the bridge trolls in charge to do something, is just not there. some form of hinged fence [hint: E.S.R.] could be erected, that stops jumpers, and allows for bridge inspection, but no, fdot says, "more jumpers, please".~) |
| 05.22.17: jumper save, male, 12:07am |
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thank you, jumpnews reporter: 05.22.17, Bill E., Riverview, Fl., (00:10am, male), HCS0 DISPATCH, Male on railing, southbound side, FHP on scene. No report of jump yet..following. later: In custody of Pinellas County. Being Baker Acted. any more info is welcome. |
| 05.22.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, MENTALLY ILL PERSON / NON VIOLENT, SKYWAY BG, 0007, 0233, 2h26m |
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05.16.17: possible something, 11:45pm unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporter: 05.17.17, Maria B., Venice, FL., At around 11:45 PM 5/16/17 I observed an empty SUV at top of bridge on the northbound side. Police shining flashlight into vehicle. High wind advisory. Spooky, concerning. any more info is welcome. |
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05.09.17: possible something unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporter: 07.22.17, anon, any more info is welcome. |
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04.15.17: possible something, 11:20am, male unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 04.15.17, Thomas S., Seminole, 11:20 this morning driving south on Skyway there was an older gentleman who got out of his car near the top had no shirt on just shorts and was looking over the side of the wall called FHP and they said a trooper was on his was to check it out 04.15.17, Aaron S., St Pete., (11:22am, male), 275 South on the North side of the hump about 2/3rds the way up. As we drove up we noticed a car parked along the west side of the bridge, as we got closer we noticed a 60ish yr old bald and shirtless white male roughly 100 yards in front of his car looking over the edge. Right before passing the man he took one leg over the edge. We immediately called 911 and we're told FHP was on the way. any more info is welcome. |
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04.13.17: possible something, 2:38am unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporter: 04.13.17, Jamie A., facebook, Thought maybe you could get more information on the outcome, but tonight as I was driving home from work (southbound) there was a woman at the top of the bridge - no car. She was bent over and doing something in her purse. I wanted to stop but by the time I saw her I would have to back up quite a ways (that's unsafe in the dark on the top). I called 911 and reported to the FHP. I passed her at 2:38am. Once I hung up with fhp I turned around at the palmetto exit, and decided to see if she was there and I would offer her a ride (just in case!) as I approached the top the fhp was arriving on the other side- couldn't tell if she was there or not. I made another u-turn at the north rest stop and headed back south. There were three troopers and they were going through the woman's purse on the trunk of the trooper. I didn't see her. I keep praying she was in one of their cars (they were not looking over the edge) but 15min had gone by by this time. Maybe you can help set my mind at ease by getting more info? I wish there was something I could've done- I fear the worst. (yours is the only report of this incident. if there is any more about it, we will post it here and contact you directly. that had to be very surreal for you. be well.) 04.15.17, Jamie A., facebook, I contacted the FHP and they confirmed she is ok! any more info is welcome. |
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03.29.17: possible something, 7:00am unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporter: 03.29.17, anon, yellow newer subaru parked at top of hump north bound. no persons in car. troopers on scene 7am any more info is welcome. |
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03.28.17: possible save, 05:07pm unknown |
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03.28.17, Hillsborough Sheriff,
MENTALLY ILL PERSON/VIOLENT, 3839, SKYWAY BG, 1707, 1906 any more info is welcome. |
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03.24.17: possible something unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 03.24.17, Florida Room, Pinellas, (8:14pm), There may be a jumper on the southbound Skyway RIGHT NOW! 03.24.17, Ladora G., facebook, (8:57pm), Northbound top of Skyway Bridge. White 2 door car stopped on very top R. Police car w lights on behind it. Hope it's not a jumper. any more info is welcome. |
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03.22.17: possible something unknown |
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03.22.17, Hillsborough Sheriff,
SUICIDE ATTEMPT, SKYWAY BG, 0101, 0238,
1h37m any more info is welcome. |
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03.20.17: possible something unknown |
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03.20.17, Hillsborough Sheriff,
MISSING PERSONS - ADULT NOT ENDANGERED, SKYWAY BG, 1517, 1822,
3h5m may or may not be recovery activities of the 03.18.17 incident. any more info is welcome. |
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03.19.17: possible something unknown |
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03.19.17, Hillsborough Sheriff,
MISSING PERSONS - ADULT NOT ENDANGERED, SKYWAY BG, 0817, 1839,
10h22m may or may not be recovery activities of the 03.18.17 incident. any more info is welcome. |
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03.18.17: jumper, 10:00pm, male, hit rocks, died, body found
08.30.17 Thomas Donald Letterle, 36 |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 03.18.17, emily, charleston, sc., (11:13 pm), active calls, GRID 723S, MEDICAL, FB11, ECSR, PD5, USCG, FFWC, R11. is this anything? acronyms 03.18.17, Susan V., Clearwater, (10:00pm, male), IONTB has comment on their site male jumper about an hour ago, no other info. Mutiple emergency vehicles and water support on scene 03.18.17, Amy M., iontb/fb, I drove up the skyway at the same time as first responders. There is a water rescue team there now. 03.18.17, Anon, Clearwater, FL., drove over around 11:45pm with cop car at the top of the bridge with lights on, helicopter with spotlight surcharge the water and about 10-12 rescue boats out in water searching also 03.18.17, Sherry, facebook, Hi skyway. I went to pick up my daughter from the airport and on the way over there were a lot of police and a fire truck, they were shining their lights in the water. When I came back over, headed to bradenton, there was a boat in the water and only one police car on bridge. Did someone jump? I can't find any news. I'm hoping and praying no but I wanted to see what was going on. Thank you. 03.19.17, Ashley M., iontb/fb, I drove over the bridge at about 10:15pm. We were heading south to Manatee. As we reached the bridge we could see tons of boats in the water with bright lights and emergency ones. When we reached the top there were firefighters looking over the edge. My heart broke the second I saw that. 03.20.17, anon, (03.18.17, 10:00pm, male), His name was Tom Letterle. I believe he was 36. He was with his girlfriend when he jumped. His family and friends are devastated. Please update if his body has been found and any other info as it's available. Thank you 08.31.17, A Friend, Cleveland, Ohio, regarding: One of the Bodies Found Yesterday, The body that was found yesterday I'm told was identified as Tom Letterle who jumped a few months ago. May he rest in peace. any more info is welcome. |
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03.18.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, MISSING PERSONS - ADULT NOT ENDANGERED, SKYWAY BG, 2225, 0302, 4h37m 08.30.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, DECEASED PERSON, SKYWAY BG, 1105, 1720, 6h15m |
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| 03.18.17, iontb/fb • iontb.com, Skyway Bridge: Emergency vehicles atop the top of southbound lanes of bridge after report received that male jumped within the past hour. | |||
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09.01.17, facebook, Katie L., Please know that the following is personal and traumatic, but I am so compelled to share God's faithfulness. Over 5 months ago, my brother died from suicide off the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. After weeks of searching, we cried out to God just hoping to recover his body so that we could give a proper goodbye and have some much needed closure. After 2 weeks, I lost hope and had to face the horrid fact that we would never get that perplexing peace we longed for. On Wednesday morning, my grandmother passed away not far from where Tom died. That afternoon, his body was recovered. If that isn't spiritually symbolic and significant, I don't know what is. I truly believe that God is the only one that could orchestrate this in that manner for where my family was and how it happened this past week. Praise God for answering our prayers. It may not be in the time frame that you expect, but He is faithful. I am completely bewildered. facebook article posts |
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03.08.17: possible something unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporter: 03.08.17, Patsy, Terra Ceia, Police on top of skyway, lights flashing. Hope its only a traffic stop. From my condo on Terra Ceia Bay. any more info is welcome. |
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02.17.17: possible something unknown |
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thank you, jumpnews reporter: 02.17.17, Shannon W., irb, (6:55pm), Black Altima parked on the north side of the hump going south bound flashers and headlights on didn't see anybody in the car when passing by. Traffic was heavy called fhp hoping it was a break down any more info is welcome. |
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02.12.17: jumper, 10:18pm, female, died, body found Sherry Anne Dufresne, 52 |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 02.12.17, Bill E., Riverview, Fl., (10:18pm, female, died, body found), HCSO sending units to skyway. Reported body had been found by a boat that is trying to tie a rope to it. No response unit from Pinellas showing on their 911 site yet. later: HCSO Has the body. Was recovered by private boat. ECSR & USCG would not respond due to body being found already. Pinellas Co 911 showed no units dispatched. Hillsborough had SO1(chopper) & M11 & units on bridge. 02.12.17, Gabbie, (11:10pm), Jst drove over bridge 6 policemen at top of bridge taking pics of a i believe honda civic & some leaning over side! I hope its not another jumper 😥 any more info is welcome. |
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| 02.12.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, SUICIDE ATTEMPT, SKYWAY BG, 2214, 0530, 7h16m | |||
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| facebook article posts |
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01.25.17: jumper, male, 12:05pm, died, body found Wayne Finley, 54 unofficially, the 300th jumper from the skyway. |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 01.25.17, Michelle, St.Pete, Fl., (12:00pm), I am on the St.Pete side of the bridge stuck in traffic. As I hit the top I see about 3 cop cars on each side of traffic on the bridge. They are looking over side into water. Possible jumper... I have screenshots of police activity on the bridge. 
acronyms01.25.17, Ann, clearwater, (11:50am, male), South bound. Male on the barrier wall with the passenger side door open. Police, rescue on scene. Looked to be mid 30's, Brown hair, blue button down shirt. Appeared he was yelling at those on scene. 01.25.17, Lori, St Pete, FL., (12:00pm, male), As I was driving SB in the bridge, there was a young man standing on top of his car, surrounded by police and other emergency vehicles. Hope they were able to talk him down, seemed to be heading in that direction. 01.25.17, Anon, My friend just crossed the bridge and said a man was standing on the wall. There were police and more on the way. The bridge is closed in that direction. This was reported to me about 12:30 01.25.17, Sue S. G., facebook, I was driving by when this was happening, it was awful several people were trying to talk to him he was so upset and shouting, just feel awful. His poor family and those who were trying to help. 01.25.17, Eileen E.,   01.25.17, Corey H., Stafford, VA., After landing at Tampa airport, around 11:40am we were driving South on I 275 (near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge), a very angry man in a grey SUV type vehicle was following us so close that he was almost touching our bumper. I was sitting in the back seat so I could see him very clearly. He continued to lay on the horn (but we couldn't go anywhere with a car in front of us and a tractor trailer in the left lane right next to us). Once he could pass, he sped up in front of us and jerked his car in and out of our lane (he was literally trying to run us off the road) He seemed very angry and in a hurry. He had brown hair and a blue dress shirt on. Once we got to the top of the bridge, we passed a car pulled over in the right lane. The man was getting out of his car and walking toward the edge of the bridge. When we saw him, I said to my mother-in-law & daughter, "that's him! I'm 100% sure that was the guy who tried to run us off the road! I said he either has a flat tire or he's going to jump". When we got home, I looked online and saw this article. (you're lucky this did not cause you any direct danger. we imagine his day took a bad turn and his anger led him to end it. we hope you and yours can cope with what you went through.) Corey H., Stafford, VA., Thank you for the kind words. I just wanted to share my info in case it shed any light on why/what may have led him to do this. It was very scary, but we are shocked and saddened that it ended that way. I feel horrible for the responders and the bystanders that may have actually seen him jump. (we get many responses from people that were going along with their day one minute, witnessing someone's last living act the next. it's surreal and distressing. while some get through it well enough, we do have some that can not lose that moment, changing their lives forever more. suicide can effect everyone, even total strangers, when they are pulled into what should be a private act. be well.) 09.24.18, Carole F., facebook, Thanks so much for the kind words. Wayne was my cousin. Although I didn't know him well, we were, in fact, family. There are many factors that led to his decision to jump. I am grateful to be able to see these pictures and read the first hand accounts of his death. RIP WAYNE!!! any more info is welcome. |
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| 01.25.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, DECEASED PERSON, SKYWAY BG, 1147, 1636, 4h49m | |||
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01.25.17, iontb/fb • iontb.com, Skyway: Law enforcement activity atop the bridge in the southbound lanes. #MoveOver ---- Right lane blocked ---- Update 12:05PM: Skyway Bridge: Southbound lane blockage as subject jumped from the bridge. FWC had boat below and is working to get person on-board. ---- Another tough one as first responders witnessed the man jumping from the bridge. Confirmed deceased. comments: •Kelli H. S., Just drove past it guy was standing on ledge screaming at cops. •April M., You must've been driving by as I was. I saw him yelling too, he grabbed onto the top of the car door and leaned back. He sounded distraught and possibly drunk. 01.25.17, bradenton.com, Man dies after jumping off Skyway Pinellas - Law enforcement is investigating a suicide off of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge on Wednesday. According to Florida Highway Patrol Sgt. Steve Gaskins, a man jumped off of the Skyway at 12:05 p.m. He didn’t survive the fall and his body has been recovered. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office will be continuing the investigation. According to the FHP website, troopers were dispatched at 10:58 a.m. Southbound traffic over the bridge is congested. comments: •Sue S. G., I happened to be on the bridge when this was happening. It was aweful to see this man so upset. I wish him peace but wish he would have found the strength and support he needed. RIP and to his family you are in my thoughts and prayers. Also thinking of the law enforcement officers and others who were trying to help him. •Karen W., I was there also. They stopped the traffic just as I got to the top of the bridge and I witnessed the whole thing. What a feeling of helplessness not being able to do something for him. Peace to him and his family. |
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01.25.17, Bill E., Riverview, Fl., Vehicle photo from the rear shows it has a DV (Disabled Vet) license plate. SAD (and with the stunning record of care the 'veterans administration' has demonstrated through the years.~) 01.29.17, Blair, Trout Creek, Canada, Regarding the DV plate Bill E. noticed in the photo. This makes two veterans in one week jumping from the Skyway Bridge. Reading the obituary for David Prior, he had everything: his wife, children, even parents. University education, employment, Green Beret and Special Ops Captain. What could possibly have happened to leave it all behind? (according to militarytimes.com, 20 vets commit suicide every day. in the article, "In 2014, the latest year available, more than 7,400 veterans took their own lives, accounting for 18 percent of all suicides in America. Veterans make up less than 9 percent of the U.S. population." that would indicate that vets are twice as likely to self eliminate as the general population. note: we can not verify if that vehicle belonged to this particular jumper or if indeed he was a vet.) facebook article posts • disagreement |
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01.18.17: jumper, 8:35am, male, died, body found David L. Prior, 55 |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 01.18.17, Rebecca h., Bradenton, fl., (8:40am), I am not sure what happened but the South bound side had cops looking over bridge and as we went further towards North bound we seen paramedic's heading southbound. 01.18.17, Dave, Hillsborough County, I was driving over the Skyway this morning heading northbound when I saw all the emergency personnel at the top of the bridge in the south bound lanes. First jumper death of 2017. My condolences to the friends and family of the deceased. RIP. any more info is welcome. |
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01.18.17, flhsmv.gov/fhp, 01.18.17, pinellascounty.org, 
acronyms01.18.17, pcsoweb.com,  01.18.17, Hillsborough Sheriff, SUICIDE ATTEMPT, SKYWAY BG, 0839, 1358, 5h19m |
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| 01.18.17, iontb/fb • iontb.com, Sunshine Skyway: Emergency vehicles on the bridge. Recreational boat with person who jumped from the bridge. Southbound lanes. #MoveOver later: Body recovered. Deceased. | |||
11.27.17, flarecord.com, Widow blames medical providers for husband's death. CLEARWATER - A widow, as representative of her deceased husband, is suing St. Petersburg medical providers, alleging wrongful death. Debra Prior filed a complaint Nov. 6 in Pinellas Circuit Court against Dr. Eli M. Kolp and St. Anthony's Hospital, alleging the medical providers failed to exercise standard medical care and skill. According to the complaint, on Jan. 15, David Prior was transported to the emergency department of St. Anthony's Hospital after an attempted suicide. The suit says he was not considered a danger to himself and was released. The lawsuit states Prior died Jan. 18 by jumping off the Sunshine Skyway Brige. The lawsuit states Debra Prior was caused to suffer hospitalization and/or funeral expenses, loss of support and services, loss of companionship and protection, mental pain and suffering, as a result of the negligent medical and psychiatric care and treatment of the decedent. The suit says the defendants inappropriately recommended discharge of David Prior, resulting in the wrongful death. The plaintiff alleges the defendants failed to timely and appropriately appreciate the severity of David Prior's psychiatric condition and mental instability, and failed to timely and appropriately perform a suicide risk assessment. Debra Prior seeks trial by jury, damages in excess of $15,000, interest and court costs. She is represented by attorney Andy B. Steingold of Maney & Gordon PA in Tampa. Pinellas Circuit Court case number 17-CA-6601 01.10.18, article discussing this incident and pending lawsuit. |
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01.20.17, Mike A., Coral Gables, FL., Dave Leo Prior, was a financial advisor with Waddell & Reed, and he was an Army Veteran. A truly wonderful person and dear friend. He will be missed. facebook article posts • disagreement |
| 01.05.17: jumper save, male, 5:00pm |
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thank you, jumpnews reporters: 01.05.17, mAki, @skywayjumpers, a male attempted but the police were about to get hold of him 01.06.17, Rick H., St. Petersburg, Save, Eye on The Bay reports FHP prevented a jump attempt yesterday, Thursday. 01.06.17, f93, Bradenton, (01.05.17, 5:00pm, male), Saw this omw home. I saw this after it happened when I passed by. Looked like the had the guy on the ground on some sorta mat. I was wondering if the EMT had sedated him? The emt had gone past me right at the start of the hill heading towards bradenton. any more info is welcome. |
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01.05.17, iontb/fb • iontb.com, Skyway: Caution traveling atop the bridge due to law enforcement activity. Southbound lanes
later: Subject taken into custody by FHP Trooper comments: • Kevin S., I was behind the undercover cop that stopped on the NB lane and jumped the barrier. The failed jumper was just kinda starring off the edge into the distance, pretty scary. He didn't notice the cop until the last minute and by then the cop had a hand on him. • Claudia H., It was a young boy. ··· Looked like like teens early 20s. |