Police in Colorado say that a trucker took his own life while parked on an interstate off ramp in Pueblo.
The incident started late on Thursday night on an I-25 off ramp when the driver’s employer called for a welfare check.
The Pueblo Police Department describes the incident:
SUICIDE CLOSES I-25
Just before 10:00 pm, officers were dispatched to check the welfare of a truck driver whose employer had been unable to contact him. They found the truck on the SB off ramp from I-25 at 29th St. The truck was running, but officers couldn’t get any response from inside. They pounded on the window, called out, and even activated their sirens, but nothing.
A locksmith was called, and he unlocked the cab. Officers Peil and Mulder climbed in and Ofc. Peil saw a sleeping bag in the sleeper compartment. He reached for it and then a gunshot went off. The officers immediately retreated.
Supervisors and other officers responded to contain the scene. Officers used a cruiser’s PA, trying to get the driver to come out, but there’s been no response. I-25 was closed in both directions while the scene was active.
Officers deployed a drone and were unable to see any movement in the cab. A team of officers approached and found the driver inside with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The investigation is ongoing. I-25 is back open in both directions.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.