On November 19, 2025, Acting Sergeant Brent Thomas was working a night shift from 1900 to 0700 hours with 2 Section when he responded to a high‑risk mental health call at the Wellington Street Bridge. Officers on scene were dealing with a female in crisis who had climbed over the bridge railing and was actively attempting to jump into the river below. The officers who had arrived first on scene noticed that she was at risk of jumping and acted immediately. Updates indicated that officers continued to physically struggle with the risk of losing their grip through the balusters. Upon arrival, Acting Sergeant Thomas immediately assessed the situation and recognized the extreme danger to the female. The subject was seated on a concrete light‑standard pillar on the outside (“bad”) side of the bridge railing, resistive and non‑compliant, with officers reaching through the railing to restrain her arms. Her jacket was unzipped, creating a significant risk that she could slip free and fall into the river.
Recognizing that fire rescue resources were still enroute and that the risk to life was immediate, Acting Sergeant Thomas made a decisive and courageous decision to take action. Using a rope bag, he anchored a line to a nearby patrol vehicle, fashioned a harness for himself, and tied a safety knot limiting any potential fall. After securing himself, he climbed over the bridge railing onto the outside of the bridge and physically positioned himself in front of the subject, pinning her safely against the railing from the outside. This act helped alleviate pressure on the officers who maintained the arms/upper body of the female through the balusters.
Despite the subject being resistive, at times even kicking at the legs of Acting Sergeant Thomas, he maintained control while simultaneously attempting to de‑escalate the situation through communication. He held this position until the London Fire Department arrived. Fire personnel successfully secured the female with a harness and safety lines, allowing her to be safely guided back onto the secure side of the bridge without injury.
Once the female was brought to safety, she continued to resist officers and attempted to pull away. Police regained control, searched her, and located a concealed utility knife in her coat pocket. She was apprehended under the Mental Health Act and transported to Victoria Hospital for medical care.
Acting Sergeant Brent Thomas’s actions demonstrated exceptional courage, leadership, and tactical decision‑making under extreme pressure. By willingly placing himself in a hazardous position, properly assessing risk, and utilizing rescue equipment beyond standard expectations, he directly prevented a loss of life. His calm command presence, technical skill, and commitment to public safety exemplify the highest standards of policing and are deserving of formal recognition.
