JANESVILLE — A man feared to have jumped off the Court Street bridge Monday night in downtown Janesville never went into the water, authorities eventually determined.
According to a news release, Janesville police officers were sent about 5 p.m. Monday to the Court Street bridge following a report from a concerned bystander who observed a male straddling the railing.
After the bystander turned away, they were unable to see the individual and feared he might have jumped into the river.
In response, officers immediately began a search of the area but were initially unable to locate the male described by the caller. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, mutual aid was requested from the Janesville Fire Department and the Rock County Sheriff’s Office Dive Teams to assist in the search. In a coordinated effort, the dive teams conducted a thorough and methodical search of the river and surrounding areas.
While this was underway, officers retrieved and reviewed security video footage from the vicinity. After careful examination, it was confirmed that the male never entered the river. The individual was later located and found safe.
This incident highlights the importance of teamwork and collaboration among our first responders.
Police say they are grateful for the assistance from the Janesville Fire Department and the Rock County Sheriff’s Office.
