Don N. Holt Bridge Suicide – On December 18, 2025, North Charleston authorities successfully intervened in a suicide attempt on the Don N. Holt Bridge along Interstate 526, preventing a potential tragedy. The incident highlights the critical importance of swift crisis response and community support for individuals experiencing mental health challenges.

Incident Details

At approximately 2:30 a.m., law enforcement received a distress call reporting a person in crisis on the bridge. Police officers quickly responded and initiated negotiations. Over the course of more than nine hours, trained personnel attempted to calm the individual and encourage them to step away from the edge.

Despite extensive efforts, the individual attempted to jump. Fortunately, North Charleston Police officers, aided by a civilian professional experienced in crisis situations, were able to intervene immediately. The person was safely brought back to a secure area and transported for medical assistance and ongoing mental health support.

Traffic Impact

The standoff resulted in significant traffic disruptions. Interstate 526 was closed in both directions at the Don N. Holt Bridge starting around 3:30 a.m. Motorists were advised to seek alternate routes until all lanes were reopened by approximately 1:44 p.m. the same day. Authorities thanked the public for their patience and cooperation during the extended closure.

Crisis Resources

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and available support resources. Individuals experiencing a crisis, or those who know someone in distress, can reach trained counselors for immediate assistance:

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Contact a local hotline for 24/7 support.

Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741741 to connect with trained professionals.

Conclusion

Thanks to the coordinated efforts of law enforcement and crisis professionals, what could have been a tragedy ended with the individual’s safe rescue. The North Charleston Police Department continues to advocate for mental health resources and community support to prevent future incidents.