A 911 call reveals frantic moments leading to the suicide of former NFL star Rudy Johnson in his Florida apartment early last Tuesday. The call captured someone reporting “someone is screaming” just after midnight, with further details emerging from police audio acquired by TMZ.
A witness from a nearby building described seeing someone jump from a balcony around 11 PM on September 22. “I saw someone fall into the pool,” he told the dispatcher. “There were a few people on the balcony; one was screaming for help.”
As the witness continued, he mentioned hearing someone desperately scream, “Help me, help me!” just before witnessing the fall. He elaborated that he heard a woman’s voice pleading, “Help! Help me! Don’t do this. Someone will help me.”
According to reports, Johnson was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. Another caller relayed similar urgent details, mentioning the sound of screams and a loud crash. “I heard a lot of screams… then a huge boom,” he reported.
In total, five individuals contacted the police about the incident. A spokesperson from the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office indicated there’s no indication of foul play, labeling the case as a suicide.
Reports hint that Johnson struggled with mental health challenges and the potential effects of CTE, which contributed to his situation.
Johnson, drafted by the Bengals in the fourth round of the 2001 NFL Draft, held the title of single-season rushing yard leader. Over eight years in the NFL, he amassed 5,979 rushing yards and 49 touchdowns, with a significant portion of his career in Cincinnati, where he was known for his performance and popularity among teammates.
His family and friends gathered for a memorial in Miami Beach on what would have been his 46th birthday. Bengals owner Mike Brown expressed sorrow over Johnson’s passing, remembering him fondly as a great player and friend to many. “We are deeply saddened by his death,” he said.
If you or someone you know is grappling with suicidal thoughts or a mental health crisis, support is available. You can reach out to 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for free and confidential counseling.
