Drivers in the LaMorinda area this evening experienced massive delays on their commute home from the city when a pedestrian reportedly blocked the overpass connecting Highway 680 with Highway 24 near Walnut Creek, California.
According to the California Highway Patrol and local law enforcement, the incident began around 2 PM. A pedestrian was seen on the roadway, and proceeded to the overpass. The pedestrian was reportedly experiencing a mental health crisis.
Police reportedly responded at the scene. Walnut Creek Police Department assisted the California highway patrol, shutting down the overpass and several entrances to Highway 24 and 680.
The incident continued until around 6 PM, when the person reportedly surrendered to police peacefully. Reports indicate that a police drone was used during negotiations with the pedestrian. Roadways are now open.
Because the busy highway and surrounding roads were closed off in the midst of the evening rush-hour, traffic delays were intense. The Bay Area telegraph was on the scene.
A column of cars extended through nearly the full length of Mount Diablo Boulevard from the affected ramps through downtown Lafayette. Travel times through downtown Lafayette exceeded one hour. Residents told the Bay Area telegraph that this was the most intense traffic they had ever seen in the town.
The delay caused a ripple effect on other neighboring roadways. As far north as Briones, travel times were dramatically increased and lines of traffic were present. Delays for drivers on highway 24 and 680 were also intense.
Despite the delays, it appears that the incident thankfully ended without harm to the pedestrian or responding officers. If you or a loved one are in crisis, call the national suicide prevention hotline at 1-800-273-8255.
