A suicidal man escaped Sonoma County sheriff’s deputies while in handcuffs and jumped to his death from the parking garage at Graton Resort & Casino early Monday, sheriff’s officials said.

Deputies had responded around 1:30 a.m. to the casino after receiving a call that a man was threatening to jump from the top floor of the parking garage.

When they arrived, he was standing on a 4-foot wall at the top of the five-story garage and talking with his wife, according to the sheriff’s office.

Deputies began talking to the man, and the sheriff’s hostage negotiations team and other first responders were called to assist. Shortly after 2 a.m., deputies were able to grab the man off the wall while he was distracted, sheriff’s officials said.

The man was handcuffed and placed on a psychiatric hold. About 10 minutes later, as deputies were walking him to a patrol car, he broke free, ran to the edge of the garage and jumped over the wall, falling to the pavement below, according to the sheriff’s office. He was declared dead at the scene.

The sheriff’s violent crimes unit is investigating the case, and the Marin County coroner’s office is conducting the autopsy on the man, whose name isn’t being released.

If you or someone you know is struggling with feelings of depression or suicidal thoughts, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers free, round-the-clock support, information and resources for help. Reach the lifeline at 800-273-8255.

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