Human Rights Commission votes to create suicide prevention task force

SPOKANE, Wash. — Spokane is working on a new effort to prevent suicide. The Human Rights Commission voted unanimously to create a task force with the sole purpose of exploring citywide suicide prevention strategies.

One area of concern is the Monroe Street Bridge.

Police data shows between 2005 and 2017, 380 suicide attempts on the bridge were reported.

Human Rights Commissioner John Lemus believes it may be time to install fencing around pedestrian walkways to deter jumpers.

The task force will also explore funding more mental health resources.

“We’ve seen a lot of uptick in suicide and I think it’s incumbent upon us as the Human Rights Commission to make sure Spokane is safe and strong,” said Lemus.

The task force will include first responders, mental health professionals, and city officials.

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