News emerged from Niagara Falls, New York, on Monday night involving a tragic incident where a mother and her two young children were reported missing. The authorities have been unsuccessful so far in locating the trio who went over the edges of the renowned landmark. Identified as 33-year-old Chianti Means, nine-year-old Roman Rossman, and the 5-month-old baby Mecca Means, the mother and children from Niagara Falls crossed over pointedly disregarded safety measures by crossing the containment railing on Luna Island connected to Goat Island, according to a public disclosure by state law enforcement officials.
The state police spokesperson, James O’Callaghan, verified the victims in this unfortunate incident as a mother and her two children. This confirmation put to rest any speculations surrounding the identities of those involved. The unsettling event is reported to have taken place around 9 p.m. on Monday.
Upon responding to the occurrence at the vicinity of Goat Island, the state police initiated a thoroughly conducted investigation. The objective findings and subsequent conclusions drawn from the probe led to the distressing conclusion that the mother had intentionally plunged into the waters with her children.
Following the acknowledged incident, extensive search operations were launched by the state police in collaboration with the state park law enforcement officials. The specific aim was to locate Miss Means and her children who were reported missing, but the amidst the challenging conditions and vastness of the area, their efforts did not yield fruitful results.
The police further emphasize the utmost importance of maintaining and prioritizing individual mental health. The severity of the situation urges any person considering harming themselves or thinking about suicide to seek immediate help. Directly dialing 911 becomes of paramount importance if one finds themselves in a threatening situation.
In addition to the immediate emergency help provided by 911 services, they promote other helplines, such as contacting the National Suicide Prevention Hotline. This hotline, accessible via 1-800-273-8255, offers confidential and cost-free services to anyone finding themselves in a challenging crisis.
Upon dialing this hotline, each person is ensured to be linked with the closest crisis center from a national network incorporated with over 150 centers. This allows each individual to receive timely, appropriate, and understanding assistance in their time of need.
Beyond national initiatives, local support exists too, including The Contact Community Services Hotline at (315)-251-0600. This hotline offers continuous telephone counseling for folks in the community and surrounding areas, available at their disposal at all hours.
Active military and veteran service members also have dedicated help available at their disposal. By reaching out to the Veterans and Military Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 and pressing 1, they can receive customized assistance. Their needs and experiences are acknowledged and met with appropriate guidance and counseling services built with understanding.
The Crisis Text Line also stands as a beneficial service for emotional crises. Anyone can access this service by texting HELLO to 741741, connecting them to an equipped listener. The service available is constant, confidential, and does not involve any costs.
The Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation Program (CPEP) located at 205, Prospect Ave., Syracuse offers individuals in acute mental health crises assessment and treatment options. Direct contact can be made at (315) 448-6555.
St. Joseph’s Mobile Crisis Outreach also provides substantial help for those undergoing an emotional crisis outside a traditional setting. By contacting either (315)-726-8650 or (315)-569-4129, individuals can access professional evaluations and assessments suited to their situation.
Lastly, the Upstate High Risk Psychiatry Program provides specialized outpatient treatment for individuals who are at a high risk of suicide. They can be reached directly at (315) 464-3117, without the need for referrals to bridge the gap of immediate necessary care.
Therefore, in the face of such tragic situations, it’s crucial to promote and value all available mental health resources to mitigate further unfortunate incidents. The incident increases the importance of availability and awareness of these resources and channels moving forward.