Only On KSL: UTA Operator Saves Suicidal Teen

KAYSVILLE, Utah – Shelly Monson has seen her fare share as a UTA operator.

In August, someone shot the bus she was driving in Fruit Heights.

“I like working with people. I like working with the public. I love my job. It’s had some trials, but I love it,” said the Roy resident.

But what happened Wednesday will forever have a special place in her heart: Monson saved the life of a suicidal teenager during her shift.

It was on her drive up I-15 North, after her morning Ogden-to-Salt Lake City shift.

“When I got to about the Kaysville exit, I saw somebody walking on the freeway by the overpass of 200 N and that’s not normal.”

When Shelly saw the teen lift a leg over the overpass barrier, “I cut freeway traffic in my staff car, threw it in park.”

The mom of five knew she had to do something.

“I hooked her leg and her arm and I said, ‘Please don’t, please don’t,’ and I got her down, and I held her until the cops got there.”

The unforgettable, split-second during her shift will sit with Monson forever.

“Suicide is really deep to me,” she said with tears in her eyes. “No child should die ever. I’ve buried a child with SIDS. I buried another child with my husband from a car accident. My nephew committed suicide four years ago. No parents should bury a child ever.”

Those who know the public transportation employee aren’t surprised by her quick actions.

“That’s just Mom. That’s my mom, I wouldn’t expect any more, any less,” said Monson’s son, Justin.

“Just the fact that she was observant and vigilant enough to see what was going on,” said her manager Andreas Colman. “She’s a hero in my book.”

“I’m just doing what God would want me to do,” said Monson. “I wish I had a hotline number cause I’d put it out there for people to call when they’re at their last minute, because nobody should die. It’s not OK.”

If you or someone you know is feeling suicidal, help is always available at the suicide prevention hotline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255).