A State Police trooper recently saved a man facing a crisis on the edge of the Tobin Bridge, as MSP shared body cam video from the incident to raise awareness about mental health.

Trooper Rassan Charles — a Mass State Police crisis negotiator — is being called a “hero” after he rescued the person battling a mental health crisis.

“We’re just going to talk,” Charles told the man, as seen in the body cam footage. “You’re not alone, (the man’s name). You’re not alone. We all care about you, (the man’s name)… Nothing to worry about, man. Nothing to be ashamed of, get through some tough times.”

The man responded to Charles: “Yeah, I know.”

Charles continued to speak to the man, saying he will support him.

“I will help you. That’s why I’m here,” Charles said. “I swear to God, I will help you. I’ll do everything in my power to provide you the help that you need, (man’s name). I guarantee you that… You can move past this, (man’s name). You’re a strong man. You’ve been through so much. You’re still standing strong, man.”

That got through to the man in crisis, who responded, “I am standing proud.”

Charles continued, “You’re not a quitter. You’re not a quitter. You are blessed. You are blessed.”

Again, the trooper’s words connected with the man, who responded, “I am blessed. I am truly blessed. I don’t doubt that one bit.”

Boston EMS Lt. John Cotter was also involved in the rescue. He told the man, “I’m not going to let this happen to you.”

The man responded, “I know you’re not. You’re doing a great job. You’ve kept me this long.”

When the man turned his back, Charles took advantage of the opportunity and grabbed him.

“You got this,” the trooper said.

The man thanked him and everyone involved in the rescue: “Thank you, appreciate you guys. Your guy is a hero.”

Recently, a State Police crisis negotiator used his training and skill to resolve a dangerous situation on the Tobin Bridge.

If you or someone you know needs support during the holidays, or any time of year, please call or text 988. You never walk alone. pic.twitter.com/ghozAxtXxs

— Massachusetts State Police (@MassStatePolice) December 11, 2025

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When MSP shared the body cam video of the incident, the agency included the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

“If you or someone you know needs support during the holidays, or any time of year, please call or text 988,” MSP posted. “You never walk alone.”

Earlier this year, Charles was recognized as a “Rising Star” by the Massachusetts Chapter of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives.

“As a 5-year veteran of the State Police and a member of the Crisis Response Team Unit, Trooper Charles plays a crucial role in providing support to individuals facing mental health challenges and homelessness,” State Police posted.

“Through his dedication and empathetic approach to community safety, Trooper Charles remains committed to upholding justice and humanity in every aspect of his role,” MSP added.

Trooper Rassan Charles with MSP Col. Geoffrey Noble. (MSP photo)

The rescue on the Tobin Bridge was a joint effort between MSP, Boston EMS, and Chelsea Fire.

“Alongside Trooper Charles and our public safety partners, we proudly commend Boston EMS Lieutenant John Cotter for his compassion and bravery during last week’s incident on the Tobin Bridge,” Boston EMS posted.

“Working together with the MA State Police and Chelsea Fire, Lt. Cotter played a critical role in safely rescuing a person in crisis from an extremely difficult and dangerous situation,” Boston EMS added. “We’re grateful for the skill, professionalism, and unwavering teamwork shown by all involved. If you or someone you know needs support during the holidays—or any time of year—please call or text 988. You never walk alone.”

MSP’s first behavioral crisis response policy was announced earlier this year. The policy was developed in consultation with clinicians at the Department of Mental Health and law enforcement experts at the International Association of Chiefs of Police.

MSP said the response framework equips troopers to fulfill their public safety duties, de-escalate encounters, help people in crisis manage their emotions and regain control, and facilitate appropriate care when it’s safe to do so.

“The Massachusetts State Police remains committed to the safety, dignity, and well-being of those we swear to protect,” MSP Col. Geoffrey Noble said when the policy was announced. “In situations where Troopers meet a person in distress, this policy affirms our longstanding commitment to respond with professionalism, compassion, and respect.”

As part of the policy, MSP emphasizes that the importance of de-escalating and taking action to connect an individual with services does not restrict troopers’ discretion to make an arrest when there’s probable cause.

Instead, the policy provides guidance about seeking an expert opinion, providing resources on voluntary care, and making a referral to an appropriate agency.