Troopers Avert Tragedy on I-71 After Mental Health Patient Escapes Ambulance
ASHLAND COUNTY – A potentially tragic situation was narrowly avoided Wednesday afternoon thanks to the quick response of Ashland Post troopers, who intervened when a mental health patient escaped from a private ambulance along Interstate 71.
The incident occurred at approximately 2:26 p.m. on June 25, when a private ambulance transporting a mental health patient pulled into the truck rest area near the 190-mile marker. According to emergency radio traffic, the patient broke free from the rear of the ambulance and ran toward the southbound lanes of I-71 in an apparent attempt to enter traffic to take their own life.
A responding trooper arrived on scene and was able to bring the individual to the ground, holding the patient safely until additional help arrived. Despite the extreme heat, troopers worked alongside the ambulance crew to ensure the individual was safely restrained and removed from danger before reaching the highway. Their actions may have prevented not only a suicide attempt but also a potentially serious crash involving passing motorists.
Ashland EMS arrived shortly after and transported the individual for further medical evaluation and care.
The incident highlights the increasing risks troopers face as mental health emergencies become more frequent. Their quick thinking, training, and calm under pressure helped prevent what could have been a devastating outcome.
