CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — A woman is expected to be okay after she drove her van into the Scioto River.
It happened in Chillicothe on Saturday just before 2 p.m. at the boat ramp in the Yocktangee Park Annex.
Police told the Guardian the woman, whose name has not been released, was barreling down the park’s access road when bystanders saw her drive into the river.
Multiple people at a nearby ball diamond ran to the ramp to pull the woman out. Police said they believe the woman’s act was intentional.
“I was at the park selling ice cream when a guy came yelling for help,” said Anthony Allen. “She was the only one in the van, no kids. We all went running for help.”
Officers arrived on scene and jumped into the water to help pull the woman to safety. Officer Chris Claytor was checked for hypothermia; he is expected to be okay.
Police said they don’t know what prompted the woman to drive into the water, but mental health is suspected.
A tow company arrived on the scene and pulled the van from the river.
If you are thinking about suicide or are feeling alone and need someone to talk to, please call the Trevor Lifeline at (866) 488-7386 for immediate help.