Messages of support have poured in for the family and friends of the man who jumped off the flyover bridge at Gillooly’s Interchange last Wednesday.
The man, a Kensington resident, is believed to have driven to the area before parking his vehicle and walking onto the bridge and jumping off.
After the news of the suicide broke, residents from Bedfordview and surrounding areas, including Kensington, took to social media to express shock.
One resident posted: “This is so sad. What desperation must be present for a person to do this? Condolences to the family and loved ones.”
“My prayers go out to his family. Too heartbreaking,” said another resident.
Due to the nature of his death, the man’s identity cannot be made public.
According to the spokesperson for the Ekurhuleni Disaster Management Service (DEMS), Mr William Ntladi, the man was 48-years-old.
A local counselor who did not want to be named said it is important for families to keep an eye on their loved ones.
“Many patients will present some symptoms which should raise red flags to their family and friends. We always advise families to get help for their loved ones, even if they only suspect that they may be depressed.
“Take them to see a professional who will make a diagnosis and then recommend solutions,” said the counselor.
Mr Ntladi said the man was pronounced dead on the scene when paramedics arrived.
“They [paramedics] found the man had sustained multiple serious injuries when he landed on the N3 North carriageway,” said Mr Ntladi.
The South African Depression And Anxiety Group (SADAG) helps families and patients with mental health issues including anxiety and depression.
Contact the Suicide Crisis Line on 0800 567 567 and SMS 31393, or the SADAG Mental Health Line on 011 234 4837 and Dr Reddy’s Help Line on 0800 21 22 23.
