Full Notification

Newark Public Safety Director Anthony F. Ambrose reports that members of the Police Division rescued a 31-year old woman from a suicide attempt at a South Ward apartment building today.

“I commend all officers involved for the swift and immediate action they took in helping to save the life of this Newark resident,” Ambrose said. “These officers exhibited quick and decisive thinking in ensuring that this woman’s life was preserved. This type of instinctive and responsive concern for one of our neighbors is an invaluable asset to the City of Newark.”

Shortly before 2:30 p.m., Police Officer Sean Lake, of the 5th Precinct, responded to a radio call regarding a woman who was attempting to commit suicide. Officer Lake observed the woman dangling off a 3rd floor fire escape. Two men were holding the woman’s arms when Officer Lake climbed up the fire escape to the 3rd floor and secured one of her arms.

With the assistance of the two males at the scene, Officer Lake was able to hold the struggling victim until further assistance was provided by 5th Precinct Officer Nelson Valentin, who also climbed up the fire escape. Sergeant Teresa Johnson aided the victim by opening a window to the fire escape and holding her to keep her from falling. A safety harness was applied to lift the victim back onto the fire escape and safely into the apartment.

EMS Rescue 1 and Newark Fire Rescue 1 along with Newark Police Division Officers Manny Marques and Frank Cordero, of the Special Operations Unit, assisted in the rescue.

The victim was transported to University Hospital for treatment and evaluation.