PORTSMOUTH — Interstate 95 was reopened in both directions today after a person experiencing a mental health crisis was safely taken into custody following a vehicle crash and a potential jump threat.
State Troopers from the Troop A barracks were dispatched to the scene on I-95 southbound near mile marker 16 just after 1 p.m., where they found a vehicle that had been involved in a single-vehicle crash.
The driver had left the crash site and was reported to be in danger of jumping from the Piscataqua River Bridge.
Members of the State Police Crisis Negotiation Unit (CNU) quickly arrived and began negotiations.
They successfully de-escalated the situation, and the individual was taken into custody without further incident.
The person was then transported to an area hospital for a mental health evaluation.
During the operation, the Portsmouth Police Department and Portsmouth Fire Department provided on-site support.
Following the resolution of the crisis, traffic on the major interstate was restored to normal flow.
New Hampshire State Police used the incident to remind the public that mental health support is readily available.
They encouraged anyone facing a mental health crisis to seek assistance by calling or texting the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 9-8-8, where free and confidential help is provided.
