Eric Mumaw, a 44 years old Tennessee police officer, was confirmed dead after he attempted to rescue a woman who was on the verge of committing suicide, The Tennesseean reports.
Mumaw and another officer were called to respond around 4:30 am involving a 40-year-old woman who was thinking of committing suicide. The two officers were directed to the Cumberland River.
The two officers found the woman inside her car on the edge of the Peeler Park boat ramp, the Metro Nashville Police Department confirmed.
The woman drove the car down the ramp and into the river. The two officers followed and slipped into the body of water. Nick Diamond, the other officer, tried to grab and save Mumaw but he failed. Diamond made it back to safety.
Metro Police Chief Steve Anderson said, "I know he died doing what he loves. He loved his midnight shift and he gave his life. I know his whole detail is over there. They're grieving. They're going to miss him.”
Police Spokesperson Don Aaron said, “We will have officers dealing with her this morning and it would be premature for me to say specifically what will happen to her later today. The initial report from officers at Skyline is that she shows signs of impairment. She is being detained and is very much under criminal investigation by this police department.”
Nashville Mayor Megan Barry said, “Our worst fears were realized today when Officer Mumaw was recovered deceased from the Cumberland River after having given his life to save a woman in distress. Officer Mumaw dedicated his life to the safety and protection of us all, and today he gave his life to that calling."
Governor Bill Haslam said, “It just shows the danger – have a lot of first responders of various types and they’re in a dangerous – they volunteer to go into dangerous situations every day and obviously, we’re really sorry for his family and friends for the loss.”
Even though he didn’t know the officer Mumaw personally, Councilman Bill Pridemore said, “Naturally, I’m devastated. As expected, everyone’s very somber and upset. He was fine cop, a very well-liked officer. He volunteered for and enjoyed the midnight shift, which surprised me — not many people do.”
According to the Tennessean, the woman, named Juli Glisson, managed to escape the vehicle. She was then taken to the hospital to be treated. Glisson is arrested for driving under the influence, driving with a suspended license, and drug possession.
Mumaw served the police department for 18 years. He won numerous awards and was honored for many recognitions involving his work for the department.
