Foresthill Bridge Suicide Barrier Circumvented By Ladder For Second Time
AUBURN (CBS13) — A suicide prevention barrier at Auburn's famous Foresthill Bridge was circumvented for the second time this year by a person with a ladder.
A Rocklin man used a ladder to leap over the barrier on Tuesday.
The topic of suicide is one we're hesitant to report on out of fear of copycats, but locals say more needs to be done to prevent these deaths.
The bridge is one of the most scenic and tallest bridges in the country, but it's also one of the deadliest.
"They know there is no end result other than what they're looking for," said Rich Kreeger.
Many say they've seen too many friends leap 730 feet to their deaths. State officials have recorded more than 80 suicides since it was built in 1973.
Green bars were put in place that obstruct the views of the American River, but are meant to prevent more suicides. But instead, at least two people have found their way over the side with a little help.
"I've had two incidents I've responded to since January," said Scott Liske with parks and recreation. "In both of them, ladders were brought to the scene to help the person get over it."
He says while the rails haven't prevented suicides, they've at least slowed them.
"It has definitely added an element of difficulty. The previous railing was only about three-and-a-half feet high," he said.
The latest deaths have sparked new calls for safety measures, including a taller suicide prevention barrier, surveillance cameras and even 24-hour patrols on the bridge.
State officials say a nearby emergency callbox has saved hundreds of lives.
Officials with Placer County, which owns the bridge, haven't responded to requests for comment on the story.