Scott Petri Death & Obituary: Scott Petri, a 57-year-old educator from Valencia and teacher with the Los Angeles Unified School District, tragically died by suicide late Friday night after jumping from the Weldon Canyon Road overpass onto the 5 Freeway. The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office confirmed his identity following an official investigation.
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Incident Details: Tragedy Unfolds on the 5 Freeway
The incident occurred around 9:45 p.m. on Friday. Multiple 911 calls were placed by motorists who witnessed a man standing on the edge of the bridge overlooking the northbound lanes of the I-5 Freeway.
According to California Highway Patrol (CHP) spokesperson Carlos Burgos-Lopez from the Newhall Area Office, witnesses reported the man appeared visibly distressed before he jumped from the overpass.
Emergency responders arrived promptly but found the individual—later identified as Scott Petri—had been struck by at least one vehicle after landing on the freeway. Sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Vehicle Found Nearby
Authorities located Petri’s vehicle parked nearby along The Old Road, a short distance from the Weldon Canyon overpass. The positioning suggests he walked from his car to the bridge before the fatal act.
As of now, toxicology results are pending, and it has not been determined if alcohol or drugs played a role in the incident.
CHP Statement and Emotional Impact
Captain E. A. Krusey of the California Highway Patrol issued a heartfelt public statement in response to the tragedy:
“Every life lost to suicide is a heartbreaking reminder of the silent battles many face. As peace officers, we often witness the pain left behind. We urge anyone struggling to reach out—there is help, and there is hope. No one has to face this alone.”
The incident caused temporary closures of the northbound lanes of the 5 Freeway while authorities conducted their investigation and cleared the scene.
Community in Mourning
Scott Petri’s death has deeply affected the Valencia community. Known by neighbors and friends as a kind and quiet man, Petri was respected for his dedication to education and his gentle demeanor. The news has prompted renewed conversations about mental health and the importance of emotional support resources.
Mental Health Resources: You’re Not Alone
This heartbreaking incident serves as a solemn reminder of the hidden struggles many individuals face each day. If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts, support is available:
Contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or visit 988lifeline.org.
Help is available 24/7, free, and confidential.
Conclusion
Scott Petri’s untimely death underscores the urgent need for greater mental health awareness, open conversations, and compassionate outreach. His passing is a loss not only to his local community but also to the field of education in Los Angeles. In memory of his life, let us collectively foster a world where support, empathy, and hope are always within reach.