Man Who Killed Himself Off Crown Beach Was Hospitalized For Depression
ALAMEDA (KCBS)— Autopsy results were completed Thursday for the 52-year-old Alameda man who killed himself in San Francisco Bay on Monday. However, it could take four to six weeks for the toxicology report.
Raymond Zack had been hospitalized at the County psychiatric ward for depression last year after he disappeared from his home and was found in the water off Crown Beach, the same spot where he drowned on Monday.
Firefighters, family members—including his horrified step mother— watched from shore as Zack committed suicide. The man's stepmother said he didn't have to die.
84-year-old Dolores Berry said after watching Zack, a six foot three, 300 pound man stand neck deep in 55 degree water, she called firefighters who couldn't rescue Zack because they didn't have the proper training.
KCBS' Holly Quan Reports:
Since Monday, fire officials have changed their policy to allow a senior firefighter to decide how to handle water emergencies. It's the only consolation that eases Berry's grief.
"I'm so tired. I didn't sleep well last night. I want to just put it aside. He's resting now and that's all," said Berry in an exhausted tone.
Rescue swimmer training for firefighters which was cut during lean budget years is now being restored.
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