Antalya, Turkey: Police in southern Turkey prevented a suicide attempt after offering a distressed man a shawarma sandwich and engaging him in calm conversation during a tense rooftop standoff.
According to local media reports, the 33-year-old man climbed onto the roof of a five-storey building and threatened to take his own life, prompting alarm among residents and shopkeepers nearby.
Witnesses quickly alerted authorities after noticing the man standing dangerously close to the edge of the building.
Within minutes, police officers, firefighters and medical personnel arrived at the scene and secured the area to protect the public.
Authorities said the man was carrying a knife, a rope tied like a noose and a plastic bottle filled with gasoline, raising fears he could either harm himself or start a fire.
Instead of using force, officers chose a calm negotiation approach, speaking to him from a safe distance and attempting to build trust while understanding the situation.
Shawarma Changes the Mood
During the lengthy negotiations, the man reportedly mentioned that he was hungry. An officer then ordered him a shawarma sandwich, locally known as döner kebab, which was offered to him as a gesture of goodwill.
Witnesses said the atmosphere began to ease once he accepted the food. Police continued speaking with him while he ate, gradually encouraging him to step away from the edge.
Earlier in the standoff, the man had reportedly threatened to set himself on fire, but his emotions appeared to settle as discussions continued.
After hours of dialogue, the man eventually agreed to come down from the rooftop voluntarily. Emergency responders immediately secured him and confirmed he had not sustained any injuries.
Authorities later transferred him into protective care, where he was connected with medical and psychological support services.
Turkish media reported that the man is known by the nickname “Suicide Traveler” because he has previously attempted to take his life in several cities.
Experts say basic human needs such as food, comfort and empathy can help defuse extreme emotional distress during crisis situations.
However, mental health professionals emphasise that people who repeatedly attempt suicide require long-term psychological care, therapy and community support to prevent future crises.
Officials said the priority during the incident was saving a life and ensuring the safety of everyone involved.
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