Authorities: Person jumps or falls off Austin bridge
Published 2:04 pm Thursday, May 9, 2013
Traffic is backed up in the west-bound lane of Interstate 90 on the east edge of Austin early Thursday afternoon after someone jumped or fell from the 28th Street NE bridge. — Eric Johnson/photodesk@austindailyherald.com
AUSTIN — A teenager from Gerard Academy died after jumping or falling off of the 28th Street NE bridge and being struck by a Peterbilt semi on Interstate 90 in Austin Thursday, according to the Minnesota State Patrol.
Law enforcement and Gerard staff were on scene but were unable to prevent the incident, which happened at 1:10 p.m., a Gerard statement says.
“Our initial information indicates that all appropriate procedures were followed,” said Gerard Executive Director Brent Henry in the statement. “Nevertheless, this is a tragic occurrence. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.”
The Mower County Sheriff’s Office, Austin Police Department and Minnesota State Patrol rerouted traffic on the interstate’s westbound lane well into the afternoon. The Austin Police Department and Minnesota State Patrol are investigating but have not released more information.
The semi driver was not injured.
Gerard is a non-locked residential treatment facility in Austin for youth ages 6-18 who have emotional or behavioral issues.
