Nashville officer saves suicidal man by listening, not rushing

The Story in Brief

Metro Nashville Police Lieutenant Mike Hotz saved 44-year-old Gary Butler from jumping off the Victory Memorial Bridge by listening and building trust, not rushing him. Butler, who had livestreamed his suicidal intentions, told officers he would jump if they approached. Hotz, a crisis negotiation team member, kept talking, eventually telling Butler: 'I just want you to feel like you are loved here because you are.' The two shook hands and embraced.

Butler later said he had been homeless and unable to afford mental health medication, feeling he had no one to talk to. Weeks after the rescue, he had found temporary housing, obtained his medication and was seeing a therapist. Hotz, a combat veteran, said his experience with fellow service members influenced his approach. The incident highlights how listening without judgment can help during a mental health crisis.