During Tuesday’s council meeting, Morrisville Borough recognized a county dispatcher who went above and beyond to help someone in crisis.
The quick thinking, professionalism, and dedication of Ryan Hoffman contributed to the safety and well-being of a person considering ending their life on July 5, said Gary Wallace, Mayor of Morrisville Borough. Hoffman may have saved a life that night due to the serious nature of the threats the individual made it to Lenape Valley Foundation’s Crisis center.
At 8:26 p.m. that night, Morrisville Police responded to a report of a person in emotional crisis for whom Lenape Valley had issued a 302 warrant. Due to unknown whereabouts and no results from given leads, the police were in a critical situation. Hoffman displayed exceptional diligence and commitment after the police provided him with the patient’s phone number despite the challenging situation. In addition to taking the initiative to contact the individual, Hoffman was able to engage the person in crisis in a meaningful conversation. Considering the circumstances, this was no small accomplishment, said the mayor.
During their conversation, the individual mentioned being in front of his home, but Morrisville Police checked the location and the individual was not there. According to the mayor, at this moment, Hoffman used his skills and sense of observation to listen closely to hear subtle audio cues, including a crosswind and the sound of a passing train. After receiving this crucial information, the officers located the individual at the corner of Green Street and Washington Street. He was then transported safely to the hospital. Hoffman played a crucial role in ensuring this individual’s safety that night. His quick thinking and dedication may have saved a life that night because of the serious nature of the threats made to Lenape Valley.
During the presentation to honor Hoffman, the mayor said, “Ryan your actions exemplify true acts of service, courage, and compassion. It is for these reasons that we are honored to present you with the civic bravery award. Your efforts are deeply appreciated and your commitment to the safety of our community does not go unnoticed. Thank you for your outstanding service.”
Credit: Joanne Ames – LBS
If you are experiencing an emotional crisis there is an array of resources and help you can access in Bucks County.
988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. You can call, text, or chat 988, and be connected to trained counselors that are part of the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline network. The current Lifeline phone number (1-800-273-8255) will always remain available to people in emotional distress or suicidal crisis.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: Call, Text or Chat 988 or 1-800-273-8255
Upper Bucks Crisis: 215-257-6551
Central Bucks Crisis: 215-345-2273
Lower Bucks Crisis: 215-785-9765
PA Drug & Alcohol Helpline: 1-800-622-4357
NAMI HelpLine is available M-F, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. ET. Call 800-950-6264,
text “helpline” to 62640, or chat online. In a crisis, call or text 988 (24/7).