News of the death of British-American model/actor Sam Sarpong shocked the world last week; with the fact he committed suicide quite difficult to digest.
Whilst it was known he jumped from a bridge to his death in California, a police press release sheds more light on the issue; showing perhaps a case of someone who struggled with some mental demons which he was unfortunately unable to overcome.
According to the police, Sam Sarpong spent seven hours on the bridge before he eventually jumped to his death. For most of that period, crisis negotiation officials were trying to talk him down from taking the action. His family also arrived at the scene, and eventually had to witness the tragic moment he finally let go.
A witness spotted Sarpong early Monday morning and called the authorities. A team of emergency personnel rushed to the scene, where the Department Crisis Negotiation Team tried working things out with him.
A police release detailed what happened at the scene.
“Numerous police officers and firefighters responded and closed off the bridge and the area below the bridge from public access.
“The individual demonstrated suicidal tendencies and members of the Pasadena Police Department Crisis Negotiation Team responded and established dialog with the male, (40 years of age and Pasadena resident).
“While conversing with the individual, members of his family arrived and provided background regarding his emotional state,” the release continued.
“Tragically, after approximately seven hours of communication, the male jumped from the bridge into the Arroyo.”
“He was pronounced deceased by Pasadena Fire Paramedics at 3:52 PM.”
Sarpong died on Monday, 26 October 2015 after jumping off the bridge. His family, who it turns out had to witness this tragic incident, released a statement in the wake of his death.
“It is with great sadness that the family of Samuel Sarpong Jr. must share the news that Sam has passed away,”
“The circumstances surrounding his death are currently under investigation and no additional details are known at this time.
“The family appreciates the thoughts and prayers and other expressions of sympathy, and request that privacy be respected at this extremely difficult time.”