Suicidal subject jumps out of ambulance, causing chain reaction crashes

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The Monroe Police Department reported a series of incidents over a week in February 2026, including a suicidal subject jumping out of an ambulance en route to the hospital, leading to multiple vehicles leaving the scene and a chain reaction of rear-end collisions on Highway 78.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the challenges first responders face when dealing with mental health crises and the potential for dangerous situations to unfold on busy roads. It also raises questions about hit-and-run driving and the need for improved protocols to prevent such incidents.

The details

According to the police report, the suicidal subject was being transported to the hospital when they jumped out of the ambulance on Highway 78. This led to a chain reaction of rear-end collisions involving an unknown number of vehicles, with most of the vehicles leaving the scene before officers arrived. Police were unable to obtain descriptions or license plate information for the vehicles that fled.

• The incident occurred on Highway 78 and the Hwy 138 ramp on February 26, 2026.

What’s next

The police department will continue to investigate the incident, including attempting to identify the vehicles and drivers that fled the scene. They will also review protocols for responding to mental health crises and transporting patients to ensure the safety of both first responders and the public.