Jay Man Died After Shooting Himself on Rumford Bridge

The Rumford Police Department has released information concerning a tragic incident this morning, Feb. 4, on the Chisholm Park Bridge, also known locally as the Memorial Bridge, on Portland Street in Rumford.

Only one shot was fired, and no shots were fired by police.

From the Rumford Police Department:

At approximately 7:48 a.m., a passing motorist reported a man seated alone in a vehicle stopped in the opposing lane of traffic in the middle of the bridge. When the motorist stopped to check on the individual, the man appeared distraught and displayed a handgun, indicating his intent to take his own life. The motorist immediately contacted 911. Rumford Police Officers, Oxford County Sheriff’s Office deputies, Rumford Fire Department, and MedCare Ambulance personnel responded promptly and secured the area. Rumford Police made repeated attempts to establish verbal contact with the man and de-escalate the situation using a public-address system. At approximately 8:23 a.m., the man raised a semi-automatic handgun and fatally shot himself. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. The individual was a 55-year-old male from Jay, Maine. He was the sole occupant of the vehicle. Only one shot was fired, and no shots were fired by law enforcement. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will conduct its standard examination and investigation before the individual is released to his family. The bridge was reopened to traffic at approximately 9:30 a.m. Chief of Police Tony Milligan encourages anyone experiencing emotional distress, thoughts of suicide, or a behavioral health crisis to seek help. Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is free, confidential, and stigma-free. Call or text 988 — Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or call 1-888-568-1112. Trained crisis specialists are available to provide immediate support and help individuals and families navigate what is often a temporary but overwhelming crisis.