Suicide prevention

Trespassing and suicide events are the leading causes of transit-related fatalities.1

This webpage contains resources on how to help someone who is thinking about suicide. It includes crisis hotlines for 24-hour support, and toolkits for individuals interested in preventing suicide. It also contains information about the Suicide Prevention Operational Task Force (SPOT), developed to support at-risk community members.

  • Welcome conversation: ask directly, “Are you thinking about suicide?”
  • Actively listen: Be present and validate their feelings. Say “I’m sorry you’re feeling guilty,” not “Don’t feel guilty.”
  • Verify safety: Ask “Do you have a plan to end your life?” Remove dangerous items.
  • Engage help: Connect them to crisis services, like calling/texting 988.
  • Stay connected: Set reminders to regularly reach out in the days and weeks ahead.

24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress:

Crisis Connections

988

Sound Transit’s Suicide Prevention Operational Task Force is committed to reducing the incidence of suicide by:

  • Increasing awareness of suicide risk,
  • Promoting mental health, and
  • Empowering individuals with the knowledge and resources needed to support themselves and others.

If you’d like to collaborate with SPOT on this mission, please reach out to Matt Mitchell (matthew.mitchell@soundtransit.org) or Savana King (savana.king@soundtransit.org).

1. Federal Transit Administration (2025). Reducing Rail Trespassing and Suicide Events (Safety Advisory 25-1 (SA 25-1)). U.S. Department of Transportation.