ROSARITO, BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO – MAY 18, 2024 Female guest of the Rosarito Beach Hotel climbed over the railing of her room and was leaning dangerously downward. At the moment when one of the hotel employees ran toward her, she let go and threw herself down. Unfortunately, she did not survive the fall from the sixth floor. Doctors pronounced her dead at the scene.
The motive for her desperate act was never confirmed. Some people who had come into contact with the woman earlier stated that she confided in them that she had terminal cancer.
Police arrived at the scene only after the woman had jumped. Some people accused the hotel staff of not interfering and waiting for professionally trained police instead. However, they acted with the intention to help, and they cannot be blamed for that.
In similar situations, it is generally recommended not to act on one’s own and to wait for the police or firefighters, who have specialists trained in suicide prevention and negotiation. However, if there is an immediate risk that the person will jump before they arrive, it is better to at least try. Leave the person personal space and never touch them. Establish communication, but never reproach them or downplay their problems. Be understanding and empathetic.
If you’re thinking about suicide, please stop and recognize that your pain is not permanent, but this step would be. It may feel like there’s no other way, but there is hope, even if it’s hard to see right now. Your feelings are temporary, and with help, they can pass.
Talking about what you're going through might feel difficult, but it’s the first step toward healing. Don’t turn away from the people who want to support you. Life can offer more than what you're feeling right now, and the pain doesn't have to last forever. You deserve help, and it’s available.
If you need immediate help, please contact a helpline.
