School board president apologizes for "insensitive" suicide post

CENTRAL CITY, Pa. -- A school board member is apologizing for posting sarcastic comments on Facebook about efforts to get fencing along a Pennsylvania bridge that's been used for suicides.

The Tribune-Democrat says Greater Johnstown School Board President Cynthia Ahiborn apologized Wednesday for last week's post. 

In it, Ahiborn wondered whether adding 10-feet of fencing to the McNally Bridge would create "a higher degree of difficulty" for jumpers who "could get at least two more somersaults and maybe a flip in."

The department says it would cost $400,000 to $500,000, plus the cost of replacing some damaged portions each year.

According to CBS affiliate WTAJ-TV, Ahiborn released a statement that reads in part: "I apologize for my post on social media last week. It was inappropriate and highly insensitive. My intention was never to be uncaring to a serious situation many people face." 

"Protecting the health and well-being of all students and residents of the Greater Johnstown community is of the utmost importance," the school district said in a written statement. 

A psychiatric nurse has started an online petition asking the state's transportation department to add the fencing. WTAJ-TV reports the petition has more than 5,000 signatures. A second petition, calling for Ahiborn's resignation, has more than 700 signatures.

It was unclear whether the school district plans on taking any disciplinary action against Ahiborn.

f

We and our partners use cookies to understand how you use our site, improve your experience and serve you personalized content and advertising. Read about how we use cookies in our cookie policy and how you can control them by clicking Manage Settings. By continuing to use this site, you accept these cookies.