Warning: This article contains discussion of suicide which some readers may find distressing.
When police officer Kyle Kaelberer pulled over on the right shoulder in September 2022 to assist a motorist with their hazard lights on, he would have never expected what was about to happen.
The Connecticut State Police officer was embarking on a routine traffic stop on Interstate 84 on 11 September, 2022, when he came across the motorist.
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After pulling over on the right shoulder near Exit 68 of I-84, Kaelberer found a man in real distress.
The motorist, who identified himself as an Army veteran, said he was on the phone to a suicide prevention hotline for military veterans.
A video of the Kaelberer approaching the man was released on Facebook by police, with it leaving many online in tears.
Warning: this video mentions suicide which some viewers may find upsetting.
“We’ll help you out, all right bud?” Kaelberer said to the veteran. He added: "I’m here with you. I’m here with you, all right?"
The Army veteran was heartbreakingly in floods of tears as the police officer said he was going to request an ambulance.
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The man emotionally exclaimed that he couldn't afford the medical expenses, but Kaelberer reassured him that the state would cover the cost of it.
The police officer then asked the veteran to step out of his truck so they could talk.
“It’s a tough time for everyone in your position, I’m here with you,” Kaelberer said.
The veteran then asked the police officer for a hug, with Kaelberer happy to oblige.
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State police later confirmed the veteran was able to receive medical assistance and was in the right place.
Officials also reminded Connecticut residents to call 988 for immediate help in case they or someone they know is contemplating suicide.
“We encourage [people contemplating suicide] to call 988, call 911 if it’s immediate, and we’ll respond,” Sgt. Christine Jeltema said.
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“988 will respond as well to them and get them the help that they need.”
Jeltema advised motorists to activate their hazard lights, just like the veteran did, if they are in need of help while on the road.
"I just think that the other side of law enforcement is that compassion,” Jeltema said.
“We’re trained to deal with people who are in [a] mental health crisis, and it’s something that we as troopers and law enforcement do every day," she said.
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If you or someone you know is struggling or in a mental health crisis, help is available through Mental Health America. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. You can also reach Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741
Topics: Mental Health, Police, US News, Health
Callum Jones