M2 Motorway Shut After Distressed Person Threatens to Jump from Medway Bridge
Police and Highways England have shut part of the busy M2 in Kent tonight after a tense incident involving a distressed individual on the Medway Bridge near Rochester.
Drivers Spot Person in Distress on Bridge
Just after 6.30pm on Sunday, several drivers called the police reporting a person threatening to jump from the Medway Bridge, between Junction 2 and Junction 3. The individual was seen climbing over the safety barrier, sparking an urgent response from emergency crews.
Traffic Held as Police Talk Person Down
Officers quickly closed two lanes of the eastbound carriageway to create a safe working area. Specialist negotiators engaged with the person to prevent a tragedy. Meanwhile, traffic was brought to a standstill, causing heavy congestion in the area.
RNLI Lifeboat on Standby, Traffic Warnings in Place
An RNLI lifeboat was put on standby in case of an emergency. Police warned the lane closures could last until at least 9pm, urging drivers to obey signals and expect delays.
Update: Partial Reopening of Medway Bridge
By 7.25pm, lanes 3 and 4 reopened to traffic, easing some congestion. However, lanes 1 and 2 remain closed as police continue to manage the incident safely. Drivers are urged to follow lane closure signals and drive carefully through the area.