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Grieving parent asks Martin County MPO to study suicide‑prevention measures at Roosevelt Bridge
Summary
Barbara Despinos told the MPO on Sept. 15 that her 19‑year‑old son died by suicide after jumping from the Roosevelt Bridge and urged the MPO to pursue safety measures such as barriers, signage and crisis call boxes. Commissioners expressed condolences and said they would seek more information and coordination with state agencies.
Barbara Despinos addressed the Martin County MPO during public comment on Sept. 15, asking officials to pursue prevention measures at the Roosevelt Bridge following the June 8 death of her 19‑year‑old son, who jumped from the bridge.
Despinos described repeated incidents at the structure and said research and real‑world evidence show physical deterrents such as fencing, nets, crisis signage and emergency call boxes can reduce suicides at jumping sites by delaying impulsive acts and creating opportunities for intervention. “When something is preventative and it keeps happening, it really drives the question, what will we do about it?” she said.
Commissioners offered condolences and expressed willingness to pursue data and options. Commissioner Jay Capps called several of her suggested measures “excellent” and asked staff to gather information on frequency and potential solutions. Commissioners noted some elements—such as physical barriers—may require coordination with state agencies or other owners of the structure and could face engineering or budget constraints.
No formal action was taken; commissioners instructed staff to follow up and to work with appropriate agencies to collect information and explore feasible short‑ and longer‑term measures to reduce future incidents.
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