October 22, 2021
King County: At approximately 7:30 PM last night, October 21, 2021, Trooper Patoc was patrolling SB SR 167 when he observed a pedestrian standing on the overpass near 37th Ave NW.
This is not entirely uncommon as people walk on the overpass to cross over the freeway. However, this man was alone, in the rain, staring at the passing cars, which was a little strange. To be cautious, Trooper Patoc decided to check on this man. When he got to the overpass he saw the man crouching down near the railing. He approached the man and found out that the man was having a particularly difficult night and was planning on jumping off the overpass. Trooper Patoc talked him down and drove him to a nearby Mod pizza and bought him dinner. Trooper Patoc had a conversation with this man and found out that he was homeless, very alone, and recently found himself in a very difficult situation. He thought he had nowhere else to turn. After the meal was over the man was very grateful to have been heard and seen as a real human being. At the end of the encounter the man changed his mind and wanted to get help. Trooper Patoc called the Crisis Center for this individual so he could be provided with assistance.
The Washington State Patrol (WSP) is very proud of the compassion that is shown by troopers and the intentional actions and time taken to help individuals in distress. This could have had a very tragic ending if it wasn’t for the decision made by the trooper to come alongside and listen. GREAT JOB!
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