A large-scale emergency response was launched on Tuesday afternoon (April 23) after a person was reported to be threatening to jump from a balcony at a high-rise block in Dagenham.
At approximately 4.30pm, police and emergency responders were called to Peverel House on Stour Road, following reports that an individual was in mental health crisis and threatening to jump from a flat balcony.
Multiple units from the Metropolitan Police and London Ambulance Service attended the scene, along with a 64-metre turntable ladder dispatched by the London Fire Brigade as part of a coordinated response to ensure the person’s safety.
The area surrounding the building was cordoned off while trained negotiators worked to engage with the individual, believed to be situated at a considerable height in the tower block. Police have not confirmed which floor the incident occurred on, but the presence of one of the fire service’s tallest aerial ladders indicates the seriousness of the situation.
Emergency responders remained at the scene for several hours as efforts continued to bring the incident to a safe resolution.
A source for the Metropolitan Police said:
“We were called to reports of a person threatening to jump from a balcony at Peverel House, Stour Road, Dagenham. Officers and emergency services remain on scene and are engaging with the individual.”
There is no confirmation yet on the outcome of the incident or whether the person has been brought to safety. The individual’s identity and condition have not been disclosed at this time.
Residents in the area have been advised to avoid the immediate vicinity of the block as emergency services continue their operations.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, support is available 24/7 from Samaritans on 116 123 or via their website at www.samaritans.org.
Further updates will follow as more information becomes available.
