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Officer's message of hope helps save man in crisis on Florida bridge

Officer Antonio Richardson of the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office rescued a man in crisis on a bridge earlier this month, spending nearly 40 minutes in conversation before the man stepped to safety.
On March 25, Valley Bible Fellowship pastors John Tweed and Ron Vietti responded to an urgent call about parishioner Robert Ochoa threatening to jump from Highway 99 in Bakersfield, California, while in crisis.
Both interventions relied on listening and offering purpose to those in distress. Richardson, an 18-year veteran and pastor with more than 30 years of ministry experience, said the encounter left a lasting impact on his career.
Since the March 25 incident, Ochoa has secured full-time work and housing through the church. Body camera video from April 12 captured the emotional rescue, showing the critical nature of Richardson's intervention.
Melissa Camp, executive director of behavioral health at HCA Florida Memorial Hospital, emphasizes that presence and listening can save lives. Those in distress can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org 24/7 for support.

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