Man dies after apparent jump from Route 89 bridge in Spring Valley

A man was found Thursday in the Illinois River near Spring Valley after a passerby saw him jump from the ledge of the Route 89 bridge. He died after arriving at the hospital.

The man was taken to OSF St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Peru after rescuers in boats discovered him from the water. Putnam County Sheriff Josh Boedigheimer said resuscitation efforts were in progress when the victim was taken to the hospital. Boedigheimer said the man died shortly after he arrived at OSF.

The sheriff said at 5:11 p.m. Thursday a passerby saw the man get out of his vehicle and jump from the bridge’s ledge. The act appeared to be intentional, Boedigheimer said.

First responders from at least seven police, EMS and rescue teams assembled at the Spring Valley Boat Club during the rescue.

The death remains under investigation and the La Salle County Coroner’s Office is expected to release any further information.

Anyone who is considering harming themselves should contact the 988 lifeline. The 988 Lifeline is available 24 hours a day throughout the entire year. Conversations are free and confidential. Counselors are available to talk to them.