Rogers County Deputy Credited With Saving Suicidal Woman

A Rogers County deputy spoke about the moment he helped save a woman from jumping off a bridge.

Deputy Steven Nelson, who helped stop the woman, said this is what they train for and he’s just glad they were able to get the help she needs.

Deputy Steven Nelson said he was on patrol Thursday when they got a call about a woman sitting on the edge of a bridge in Oologah. He said when he got there, police were already there and trying to talk with the woman.

"First thought is making sure she's okay, not trying to pressure her too much," Nelson said.

Nelson said they've responded to a lot of calls for people thinking about suicide. He said typically when people are in a situation like that, they don't want to talk to anyone, they just want to be alone.

"Through my past EMS training, we learn how to talk to people in difficult situations, and I was able to gain her trust within about 10 minutes,” Nelson said.

Nelson said as they got her a blanket and food, he was able to get close enough to grab her and pull her to safety.

Sheriff Scott Walton said he's proud of his deputy's work.

"Suicide is a sad event for everybody involved, and it makes you feel good that somebody can be there and save a life," Walton said.

They said they hope the woman is doing better now and getting the help and support she needs.

"There's a thousand different things going through your mind when you're headed to these calls, and luckily this one turned out perfect," Nelson said.

If you or someone you know is going through a time of crisis, there are people ready to help right now.

You can call Family & Children’s Services at (918) 744-4800, Parkside Psychiatric Hospital & Clinic at (918) 588-8888 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK.