In July 1912, construction began on an absolutely gorgeous bridge in Pasadena, California, over the Arroyo Seco River. Construction ended in 1913, and for years, the Colorado Street Bridge was a point of pride for Southern California residents. However, in November 1919, something changed. A person plummeted to their death from the top of the 150-foot-tall landmark. By 1932, it was well-known by a very different name: The Suicide Bridge in Pasadena. Today, it's a haunted bridge in California that most stay far, far away from.
As of this writing, more than 150 people have ended their lives on this bridge.
Around 50 of these suicides happened during the Great Depression. The rest have happened in the decades since, with a wave of 28 occurring between 2006-2016.
The architecture of the bridge is stunningly beautiful, but the beauty is eclipsed by the morbid history.
From 1926 to 1940, the bridge was a part of Historic Route 66. As captivating and gorgeous as it is, visitors say there's an unease in the air; they get a distinct feeling that they do not belong there.
It isn't known what draws people to leap to their death from this particular bridge.
Some say that the restless spirit of a deceased contractor beckons distressed visitors to take the plunge, though that's likely just a rumor.
One thing's for sure: as the site of over 150 deaths, the Colorado Street Bridge isn't without its ghosts.
Over the decades, reports have floated around claiming to have seen any number of strange and spooky characters on and under the bridge. There's the woman who leaps from the guardrail to her death, only to disappear on the way down. There's the man who approaches visitors and whispers, "It's her fault", though he never explains who "she" is.
In 1993, the bridge underwent a 27 million dollar renovation which saw a suicide barrier installed. This did not, however, stop the suicides outright- it merely slowed them down. Talks have been long underway for the installation of a permanent barrier. Local historians and lovers of the bridge alike hate the idea, though they recognize the dire need for it.
The bridge's past is wrought with tragedy, and it's no wonder that the spot is regarded as among the most haunted in California.
A visit here, especially by night, is nearly guaranteed to terrify and intrigue even the bravest of explorers. Can you handle the darkness in the atmosphere?
One can feel the lingering sadness of past tragedies hanging in the air around the bridge.
Some days seem heavier than others.
Check out this paranormal investigation of this haunted bridge:
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please consider reaching out to a trusted professional, or to the Suicide Hotline at 800-273-8255. The hotline is available to help 24/7/365. It isn't your time yet - you are loved.
Have you ever seen the Suicide Bridge in Pasadena? Have you ever experienced anything scary at this strange and unusual haunted bridge in California? Let us know about it in the comments. Take a road trip and experience some scary haunted places in California, if you dare!
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