Recovery of Car That Drove Off Virginia Beach Pier Postponed as Questions Mount

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Recovery efforts are underway for a car that drove off the Virginia Beach pier early Saturday morning, leaving many questions unanswered. The cause of the incident is still under investigation by the police, leaving a growing number of people wondering what led the driver to veer onto the 14th Street Fishing Pier and plunge into the ocean.

Concerns about the driver's mental health have also emerged, prompting discussions about the need for increased awareness and support for those struggling with mental health issues. At the scene near the pier, people walking on the boardwalk gathered to look at flowers and a poster bearing the words "Dear Stranger," conveying a message of compassion to the driver and raising awareness about suicide prevention.

Authorities are working diligently to recover the submerged car and determine if anyone was inside. The cause of the incident has not been disclosed by the police, leaving the community in suspense regarding the circumstances surrounding the ill-fated drive into the ocean.

Vanessa Church, a former pier worker, spoke with local news outlet WAVY 10 about the incident. She expressed her astonishment at the car's forceful impact, noting that the now-broken iron gates required considerable power to be pushed through.

KaMaria Braye from WAVY 10 also had a conversation with Hannah Hayden, a licensed clinical social worker and owner of Sapphire Counseling in Portsmouth. Hayden stressed the importance of regularly checking up on loved ones, especially those who may be displaying signs of isolation or expressing suicidal thoughts. She encouraged individuals to intervene immediately by not allowing someone in distress to end a phone call and offering assistance promptly, even by contacting emergency services if necessary.

Hayden also emphasized that seeking professional help and guidance is crucial for individuals grappling with mental health challenges, as supportive measures and therapy can aid individuals in overcoming difficult emotions.

While the exact reasons behind the fateful incident that led to the car plunging off the pier remain unknown, it serves as a stark reminder for individuals struggling with mental health issues to reach out for support. The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 9-8-8 is available for anyone in need of immediate assistance.

As the recovery efforts continue and investigations into the incident proceed, the community remains hopeful for answers and resolved to raise awareness about mental health struggles to prevent such tragic incidents in the future.