A man took the sign a bit too literally.
Babae described the scene as almost cinematic when a man, in what can only be called a moment of crisis, leaped from the awning of Do or Dive bar in Bed-Stuy, dragging the sign down with him.
Since Tuesday afternoon, the iconic sign has been laying in a backyard in the area, remnants of the chaotic event.
Witnesses reported that the man had made his way onto the roof of a nearby building around 1 PM and attempted to grab onto a second-story window. Unfortunately, he lost his grip and fell.
Fortunately for the residents nearby, the awnings broke his fall somewhat, but still, both he and another individual ended up on the ground.
Surprisingly, the man didn’t seem hurt and quickly ran back inside the building.
“It was quite the scene,” remarked a bartender involved in the incident, characterizing it as something you would see in a movie.
Another bartender indicated that many were expressing sympathy, saying, “Everyone was just like, ‘Rest in peace, man, it’s so sad,’” while choosing to stay anonymous.
The NYPD received at least one report about a person who seemed to be experiencing a mental health crisis, but onlookers insisted the jumper wasn’t “crazy.” Richard Garland, who works nearby, stated, “He was in a moment of panic. He’s actually a nice guy; I feel bad for him.” He added, “He seemed convinced someone was after him; perhaps he momentarily lost his grip.” Fortunately, it appears no one else sustained injuries.
Rumors circulated, with one individual suggesting, “This is just speculation. He appeared paranoid, like something was chasing him, leading to the jump.” They initially expected more severe outcomes but later learned he returned home.
According to the police, the 27-year-old man was transported to a hospital for evaluation but hasn’t faced any charges related to damage.
The sign, a fixture for over 40 years, originally belonged to B’s West Indian restaurant before being repurposed in 2011 by Do or Dive. It underwent another change in 2016 when its name was altered using black tape.
In the end, business remained steady for Do or Dive, and plans are in place to restore the sign shortly.
