Albuquerque, NM – April 9, 2025 — A man is in critical condition after a harrowing suicide attempt on Interstate 40 in Albuquerque on Wednesday morning. The incident, which unfolded near the Carlisle Boulevard overpass, caused a major traffic shutdown and mobilized multiple emergency response units.
According to preliminary reports from law enforcement and emergency services, an adult male, described as intoxicated at the time, was seen walking erratically along the rails of the bridge above I-40. The situation quickly escalated when the man jumped from the bridge onto the interstate below, where he was struck by a passing vehicle.
The unidentified man suffered extensive injuries, including two broken legs, multiple fractures throughout his body, and a severe laceration to his head. Emergency Medical Services (EMS), fire crews, and police quickly responded to the scene and rushed the man to a nearby hospital, where he is currently listed in critical condition.
Traffic came to a standstill as first responders managed the scene and the medical evacuation. Authorities temporarily closed a significant stretch of the I-40, causing major congestion and delays that rippled as far as the Tennessee/North Carolina border, due to the traffic backlog and incident response coordination.
Albuquerque law enforcement agencies confirmed that mental health concerns were at the center of the incident, and they are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the man’s condition and actions leading up to the event.
This marks yet another suicide attempt in the city—a growing concern for public safety officials and mental health advocates. Albuquerque has seen a steady increase in mental health-related emergencies, prompting calls for more resources, intervention programs, and public awareness campaigns to address the crisis.
“We are seeing more and more cases like this,” one first responder noted. “People are in pain, and unfortunately, many feel like they have nowhere to turn. It’s a reminder of how important mental health support is in our community.”
The Albuquerque Police Department urges anyone who witnesses someone in crisis to call 911 immediately and to utilize available mental health resources.
Authorities have not released the man’s name out of respect for his privacy and family. No charges have been filed as the focus remains on his recovery and well-being.
As of late Wednesday afternoon, the affected section of I-40 has been reopened to traffic. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, help is available. Call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. Trained counselors are available 24/7 to listen and offer support. You are not alone.
