By Lisa Leff
Associated Press
SAN FRANCISCO — A California man who was talked out of jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge eight years ago is being reunited with the California Highway Patrol officer he credits with saving his life.
Kevin Berthia is scheduled to present a public service award Wednesday night to CHP Sgt. Kevin Briggs. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is recognizing Briggs at its annual dinner in New York.
The last time the two men saw each other was on March 11, 2008. Berthia, then 22, went to the bridge planning to kill himself. He changed his mind after Briggs spent over an hour gently coaxing him off a ledge.
Last year, there were 33 confirmed and three unconfirmed suicides. Bridge officials recorded 86 successful interventions by CHP and bridge security officers.
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