Quick Reporting and Team Effort Saves Potentially Suicidal Subject

Last week while on duty, Adam Sorensen, track supervisor, Stockton , Calif. , spotted a man sitting in a lawn chair on the mainline tracks in south Stockton . Sorensen verbally warned the subject about the dangers of his actions and escorted him off the tracks, but the subject continued erratic behavior and refused to leave the area.

Sorensen promptly called the Resource Operation Center (ROC) and reported the unstable subject. Senior Special Agent Matt Lorentzen immediately contacted the Stockton Subdivision dispatcher and placed a slow order in south Stockton , asking train crews to be on the lookout for the subject.

Senior Special Agent Joe Chiasson responded and after a brief search, located the subject. Chiasson then questioned the subject and learned he had escaped from a local mental institution. Due to his escape, the subject was off his prescribed medication for extreme depression and psychotic behavior. Chiasson transported the subject to the San Joaquin County Mental Health Facility for treatment.

"Based on Adam’s observations and Joe’s subsequent findings, one can only conclude that this individual would have harmed himself if allowed to remain outside administered care," says Israel Salazar, senior special agent II, Stockton. "On this day, Adam’s quick and appropriate actions likely prevented a suicide-by-train incident."

For his responsiveness, Sorensen is being given a BNSF On Guard recognition.

Examples of "On Guard" behavior include reporting security violations; checking someone's identification, such as official credentials; preventing "tailgating" through secured doors or areas; going beyond the job to check security of trains, loads or facilities; reporting trespassers; and reporting crimes in progress on BNSF property. Employees should report all suspicious activities, individuals and trespassers to (1-800) 832-5452.

For more information on the On Guard program, go to the Resource Protection Intranet site and click Protection Solutions. Or go directly to: http://www.bnsf.com/resourceprotection/html/on_guard.html.