Almost three years to the day of a harrowing rescue, man jumps off of Mount Hope Bridge

A man jumped off of the Mount Hope Bridge Friday almost three years to the day where a harrowing rescue took place.

Just after 3:00 p.m., a report came into dispatch for a man jumping off of the bridge.

Bristol and Portsmouth personnel responded to the scene to recover the man.

Officials would not release the man’s condition.

On December 1st, 2019, quick thinking and an act of bravery led to three men saving a girl’s life on that same bridge.

Here is our story from that rescue:

Mike Mello, who called Bristol Police and began recording after seeing what he thought was a couple arguing, quickly discovered the incident was much more serious.

“I stopped recording when I saw her look over the edge. I asked the man in front of me if he knew her and he said no. That’s when I got out. Myself, the man behind me and the man in front of me jumped out all at the same time. The man behind me ran and grabbed her as the other man and myself were on the ledge of the bridge holding onto her as she hung off of the bridge.”

It was at this time at approximately 10:00 p.m. that a Portsmouth police officer arrived to help the three pull her up and over to safety.

The incident was an incredible act of bravery, but Mello was modest about the incident.

“If it wasn’t for the two other men stopping and getting out, she would have never made it. I wish I had gotten their names. Not many people would have stopped and helped. It is nice to know that there are still good people in this world.”

If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide or in emotional distress, reach out for help by calling or texting 988 (Veterans: Press 1, Spanish Line: Press 2). Chat is also available at 988lifeline.org/chat.