Eastbound SR-78 Closed for Three Hours during Morning Commute

San Marcos CA— This morning, January 26, 2018 at approximately 6:26 AM a Hispanic male climbed over the safety railing and fencing on the Nordahl Road overpass in San Marcos. The male positioned himself over the eastbound lanes on a thin ledge on the side of the overpass.
Two California Highway Patrol Officers who were nearby heard the dispatch call and made their way to the area. They located the subject who was on the outside of the railing and fence. They immediately began conversing with the subject, attempting get him to return from the outer side of the railing. Other CHP units closed the eastbound lanes of SR-78 to ensure safety for the
motoring public, the involved individual and the officers attempting to help him.
San Diego Sheriff’s Department responded and closed Nordahl Road around the incident, and sent trained crisis negotiators to the area.
The involved CHP Officers had developed a rapport with the party and continued the negotiations with the assistance of the SDSO negotiators. After approximately three hours, at approximately 9:30 AM the individual climbed back over the railing and fence and was taken into custody without incident.
The SR-78 Eastbound lanes were re-opened at approximately 9:35 AM. The male was taken to Palomar Medical Center for evaluation regarding his mental status.
While there is no easy way to remedy these situations, this incident was an excellent example of the cooperation, and teamwork among the local law enforcement agencies. That teamwork led to a safe resolution to the incident. Thank you to all the motorists affected for being patient during this incident.