Trooper Rassan Charles spent about 90 minutes calmly talking a man off the 250‑foot Tobin Bridge before guiding him to safety, according to bodycam footage released by Massachusetts State Police. The individual, reported to be a father of two who had recently lost his job, accepted help after extended, compassionate engagement. MSP released the video to raise awareness about mental health and reminded the public that support is available by calling or texting 988.
Mass. Trooper Talks Man Off 250‑Foot Tobin Bridge After 90‑Minute Crisis — Bodycam Shows Calm Rescue
Massachusetts State PoliceTobin Bridge rescue in Massachusetts
A Massachusetts State Police (MSP) trooper helped save a man who was preparing to jump from the 250‑foot Tobin Bridge, according to body‑worn camera footage released by the agency.
Bodycam Captures 90‑Minute Crisis Response
The video, posted by MSP on Facebook on Dec. 11, shows Trooper Rassan Charles of the State Police crisis unit calmly engaging with the individual for roughly 90 minutes. The man — later reported to be a father of two who had recently lost his job — stood on the bridge above the water as Charles repeatedly encouraged him to stay with him and not act on his impulse.
“Nothing to worry about, man, nothing to be ashamed of. Get through some tough times,” Charles tells the man in the footage. “That's that beacon of hope, the light that you have in you right now. Hold on to that. Don't let that go.”
At one point the man tells officers he is “sorry.” Charles answers, “That's what we do. We're here for you.” Later, when a brief opportunity arose, Charles seized the moment, physically guided the man away from the edge and escorted him to safety.
gettyTobin Bridge in Massachusetts
Training, Praise and Mental‑Health Resources
MSP said the footage was released to raise awareness about mental health and to highlight crisis response. The agency reminded anyone in need that they can call or text 988 any time for support. Local coverage by CBS Boston noted that the encounter occurred about three weeks after Charles completed a new state training program focused on de‑escalation and crisis intervention.
Dr. Joanne Barros of the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health, speaking at a press conference, praised Charles' approach, saying his actions "should be used as an example" of connecting with someone in crisis as a human being rather than only as a case to manage.
The released footage underscores both the emotional demands of crisis response and the potential impact of specialized training for officers who confront mental‑health emergencies.
Sources: Massachusetts State Police (bodycam release), CBS Boston, People.
