Tragedy Strikes at Fire Island Lighthouse: Man Jumps to His Death
A man lost his life after leaping from the observation deck of Long Island’s Fire Island Lighthouse on Friday afternoon, coinciding with the approach of Labor Day weekend, a busy time for local tourists.
The Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD) stated that the individual, whose details remain undisclosed, fell from the 167-year-old lighthouse around 1:45 p.m. Investigators from the SCPD’s Homicide Squad are collaborating with the National Park Service to look into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Authorities have reportedly reviewed surveillance footage that captures the victim arriving at the lighthouse, purchasing a ticket, and subsequently jumping from the structure.
As a result of this tragic event, the tallest lighthouse on Long Island has temporarily ceased operations, just as summer tourism peaks. The Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society confirmed via social media that the lighthouse would be closed immediately, with intentions to reopen on Sunday.
For over a century, the Fire Island Lighthouse has been a notable feature of Long Island’s landscape. It was first lit in 1858 and was adjusted in 1891 to showcase its striking black and white stripes, which make it readily identifiable. Standing at 168 feet, the lighthouse offers visitors views that extend to the New York City skyline from its summit.
This incident follows closely on the heels of another tragedy that occurred a week prior, where a pastor from North Carolina drowned about 2.5 miles away in Sailors Haven. According to the SCPD, 59-year-old Ishmoile Mohammed was caught in a rip current while swimming on August 23.
Witness reports describe a chaotic scene where one moment, Mohammed was enjoying the water with his family, and the next, he was swept away. Lifeguards managed to rescue him, but he was later pronounced dead upon arriving at South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore.
For those grappling with suicidal thoughts or mental health crises in New York City, support can be accessed by calling 1-888-NYC-WELL for free crisis counseling. For individuals outside the city, the National Suicide Prevention hotline is available at 1-800-273-8255 or via their website.
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