Florida Man Hospitalized After Jumping Off Pensacola Bay Bridge, Rescued by Boaters After 30 Minutes in Water
GULF BREEZE, Fla. — A 49-year-old man is recovering in the hospital after jumping off the Pensacola Bay Bridge on Friday morning, according to a statement from the Gulf Breeze Police Department. Authorities said the man was rescued by local boaters after spending nearly 30 minutes in the cold water before being brought to shore for medical care.
Police Responded After Reports of a Man Jumping From the Bridge
Police received a call around Friday morning reporting that a man had jumped off the bridge near Mariners Landing. Officers and first responders quickly arrived at the scene while rescue teams and nearby boaters began searching the area.
“After approximately 30 minutes in the water, a man was recovered by a boater and brought to shore for medical care,” police confirmed in an official release.
The identity of the man has not been publicly released as of Friday evening.
Man Sustained Multiple Injuries and Was Transported to Hospital
According to police, the man suffered multiple injuries consistent with a fall from the bridge.
“The male was complaining of back and rib pain and had lacerations on his knees, hands, and mouth,” the statement from Gulf Breeze Police said.
Emergency personnel reported that the man was alerted as a trauma case and immediately transported to Sacred Heart Hospital for treatment. Officials described his injuries as serious but non-life-threatening.
Rescue Efforts Credited to Boaters and Quick Emergency Response
Authorities credited the swift actions of local boaters who spotted and pulled the man from the water before emergency units could arrive. Their quick thinking was crucial in preventing potential drowning or hypothermia, given that the man had been adrift for about half an hour in open water.
The Pensacola Bay Bridge, which connects Gulf Breeze to Pensacola, spans more than 3 miles across the bay and stands about 65 feet above the water. Jumps from the bridge are rare but can result in serious or fatal injuries due to both the height and the impact force.
Police Continuing to Investigate Circumstances
The Gulf Breeze Police Department has not disclosed whether the incident is being investigated as an intentional act or accident. Officers said more details will be shared as the investigation continues.
As of Friday afternoon, the man remained under medical care. No additional updates have been released by officials.
Local authorities reminded residents to immediately report any similar emergencies to 911 and avoid entering the water during rescue operations unless properly equipped and trained.
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