Man Found on Roadway, Treated for Possible Hypothermia in Jacksonville

Jacksonville police responded late on Wednesday, December 4, after a caller reported a man lying in the roadway at the intersection of Mound Road and Westgate Avenue. Officers located an adult male who told them he had been out in the frigid weather for hours. Because he showed signs consistent with hypothermia, officers transported him to Jacksonville Memorial Hospital for treatment. He gave a Waverly address but may have been experiencing homelessness. His condition was not available.

The rescue comes amid a night of dangerous cold and low wind chill values across the area. Temperatures that feel much colder because of wind create higher risk of hypothermia and frostbite, particularly for people exposed to the elements for extended periods. Local emergency responders and public health officials have emphasized common precautions for extremely cold weather.

Dress in layers with an insulating middle layer and a weather resistant outer layer. Cover your head, hands and feet, and wear warm socks and boots to reduce heat loss. Limit time outdoors when wind chill values make temperatures feel much colder than the measured air temperature. If you must be outside, take frequent breaks indoors to warm up and avoid strenuous activity that can increase exposure risk.

Know the signs of hypothermia and frostbite and act quickly. Shivering, confusion, slurred speech and drowsiness can indicate hypothermia. Pale or numb skin on fingers, toes, ears and nose can indicate frostbite. Move anyone who appears cold and disoriented to a warm location and seek medical help immediately. If you find someone unresponsive or in medical distress call emergency services.

Check on elderly neighbors, people with chronic illness, and anyone who may be without stable housing. Community awareness and early action reduce the chance of severe cold injury. The incident on Mound Road and Westgate Avenue is a reminder that frigid nights present real danger in Morgan County and that simple precautions and timely reports to authorities can save lives.