Trooper recognized for heroic lifesaving efforts in Greenwood

An Indiana State Police trooper was recognized recently for risking his own life to save a suicidal woman in Johnson County last year.

According to Indiana State Police, the incident happened in August, when Sgt. Bill Spalding arrived to help a woman who was standing on an Interstate 65 overpass in Greenwood. She told police she was suicidal.

Spalding tried to talk her down for more than 25 minutes but eventually she laid on the ledge and began lowering herself over the edge before releasing her grip. Spalding leapt to rescue her, extending himself over the wall and grabbing her arms while risking his own safety. Despite her struggling, he held on until other officers could assist him to pull her to safety.

He was awarded the Silver Star by the department last week.