A disturbing and emotional call came into 911 just after 5:30 p.m., when a woman reported that her 86-year-old grandmother was in crisis—breaking garage windows with a pitchfork and attempting to strike family members.
It could have ended in chaos, but thanks to the calm, compassionate response from local officers, the situation was brought under control without anyone getting hurt.
Responding officers immediately recognized the signs of a mental health emergency and took steps to ensure the woman received help—not handcuffs. They contacted Adult Protective Services, reached out to a local mental health center, and called for ambulance transport to Southern Ohio Medical Center (SOMC).
Though the mental health counselor declined to respond in person—stating that SOMC social workers could conduct the evaluation—the officers remained on scene to support the family and ensure the woman’s safety until help arrived.
👏 First Responders on the Mental Health Front Line
Incidents like this highlight how law enforcement officers are increasingly serving as first responders to mental health emergencies, stepping into roles far beyond traditional policing.
Rather than escalate the situation, these officers:
- Assessed the danger
- Protected the family
- Activated social services
- Ensured the elderly woman got medical care
💡 When a Loved One Is in Crisis:
If you’re facing a mental health emergency with a family member—especially an aging loved one—here are a few important steps:
- 📞 Call 911 if there’s a risk of harm—to them or others.
- 🧑⚕️ Ask for a mental health crisis team if one is available in your area.
- 📋 Have medical history ready to help responders understand the situation.
- 🤝 Follow up with hospital social workers or Adult Protective Services for continued care.
Kudos to the officers who handled this tense moment with patience, professionalism, and compassion—proving once again that true public safety includes protecting mental health.
