Witnesses never get the credit they deserve. As officers, we know the value of a person stopping to be a witness at a traffic collision or a crime scene. The information they provide can be invaluable and can truly be the missing piece of the puzzle.
The other night I handled a felony hit and run involving a DUI driver and a pedestrian, who later died at the hospital.
After being struck, the pedestrian was left in the middle of the street as the driver took off. There were a couple of witnesses who chased the suspect about a mile down the road to his home. They called the police and stood by for officers to arrive.
The suspect was later located and arrested. After I finished the call, I was grateful the witnesses had followed the suspect. If it hadn’t been for them, we might never have found the bad guy.
People don’t realize how important their information can be. Without them, it’s a puzzle that can never be solved.
My hat is off to those witnesses from that night. I’m glad you got involved to help. I’m sure the victim’s family would agree.
Badge415 
Good witnesses are worth their weight in gold. They really are. You’re right too, they don’t get recognized as often as they should.
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I always shake their hands and thank them for stopping.
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There are still a few GOOD people in this world.
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Yes, there are. Luckily, I’m reminded about it every day when I met them.
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Thank goodness there are still people out there that will get ‘involved’!
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So true. You’d be amazed how often this happens.
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Very brave people to chase the suspect to his house. I’m sure the grieving family of the victim are grateful for them as well.
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I hope it brings them closure.
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I’m glad these people drove off after the suspect, but I do hope that at least one person stayed behind with the victim. I hate the thought of someone laying in the street, vulnerable to other dangers 😦
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Yes, other people stopped and waited until officers arrived.
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Good 🙂
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Always good to hear that civilians are doing the right thing, too. I’m heartened to hear they were such a great help in a horrible situation.
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I agree. It’s always good to see.
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