Atlanta officers help a woman in crisis by stopping her from walking into deeper water
By: -----
Atlanta, GA - On Tuesday, June 23, 2026., Atlanta Police Zone 1 officers responded to a 911 call regarding a woman in distress at Rodney Cook Park on Joseph E. Boone Blvd NW.
Upon arrival, officers located a woman in the park's pond who appeared to be experiencing a mental health crisis.
The woman was visibly distressed, crying, screaming, and sitting on a rock in the middle of the water. As officers attempted to communicate with her, the woman slid down from the rock and attempted to move into a deeper area of the pond. Fearing for her safety and believing she was at risk of drowning or intentionally harming herself, officers followed her and immediately entered the water and intervened.
Despite officers' efforts to help, the woman actively resisted rescue attempts and was too distraught to walk to safety. That is when one officer decided to carry the woman over his shoulder and up to the street where she could get care from Grady EMS. Throughout this encounter, officers continued to treat the woman with compassion and care, speaking calmly with her, checking on her well-being, and remaining by her side until medical personnel arrived to provide further assistance.
This incident serves as a reminder that mental health crises are real, and they can affect anyone. The Atlanta Police Department remains committed to serving our community with compassion and professionalism. We recognize that mental health crises require patience, understanding, and collaboration, and our officers remain dedicated to responding with empathy while connecting those in need with appropriate care and resources whenever possible.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. You are not alone. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides free, confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling or texting 988.