The quick thinking and swift action of two LAFD firefighters saved a man's life, before he could decide to jump, or fall, from a freeway overpass.

On September 27, 2021, LAFD Engine 52 was dispatched to reports of a Jumper on Sunset Boulevard, which is not an uncommon incident for the area. In fact, someone had jumped to their death just three hours earlier, before rescuers could intervene. The crew found no patient at the initial location, but widened the search and found one man on the wrong side of the protective barrier of an overpass at Western Avenue and the Hollywood Freeway.

The sirens remained off on approach, as to not startle or provoke the man. As soon as the engine came to a full stop, Engineer Andrew Kelly and Firefighter Nathan Vonderharr both sprung from the apparatus and quickly reached over the railing to grab the man's torso and arms, then pulling him back over the railing and safely to the ground. Firefighters made sure he was not able to get up and try again, and waited for LAPD to arrive to place the patient on a 5150 (72-hour hold for mental health reasons). Firefighters provided the patient with a medical assessment, and transported him to a local hospital with LAPD.

These two members demonstrated strength, compassion, and unwavering commitment to serving the people of Los Angeles. They acted swiftly and decisively in a stressful and dangerous situation, and saved the life of a person that was experiencing a crisis. Because of their actions, this distraught person survived, received the medical help they needed, and now has the opportunity at a second chance in life.

Andrew M. Kelly and Nathan E. Vonderharr were both recognized by the Fire Department with Certificates of Appreciation at the August 1st Board of Fire Commissioners meeting, for this bravery and exceptional effort in saving a citizen of the City of Los Angeles.