Experiences with Hit and Run Incidents: A Police Officer's Perspective

Every day, as a police officer, I encounter various scenarios involving hit and run incidents. These incidents can range from minor property damage to fatalities. In this article, I will share my experiences with such incidents, focusing on the role of technology in investigation and the broader impact of these cases on society.

Technological Advancements in Crime Investigation

One of the key tools we use in catching hit and run offenders is CCTV surveillance. The university where I work has an extensive system of surveillance cameras, particularly at the exits, which helps in identifying vehicles involved in accidents. When a call is received, our system can quickly pull up the relevant footage and license plate details, making the investigation process much more efficient.

For instance, a few months ago, a Toyota SUV backed into one of our food-service trucks and left the scene, leaving behind tail-light debris. Using the campus's specialized exit cameras, we identified a Toyota SUV with a damaged tail-light, matched the license plate to its owner, and made a simple phone call to inform them of the incident. Often, the owners are not even aware that the vehicle was involved in an accident until receiving this notification.

Personal Incidents and Reflections

While not directly involved in catching every hit and run case, my experience with such incidents is vivid and memorable. One significant case that stands out occurred about 10 years ago when I witnessed a teenage girl being hit by a drunk driver. As a bystander, I managed to catch most of the license plate number and the details of the vehicle, which I later handed over to the police. My girlfriend and I were concerned about the girl's state, ensuring she remained calm and alert until the ambulance arrived, preventing a deeper injury or even worse, shock.

The perpetrator, identified about two hours later, faced the consequences of his actions, but details about his fate are still uncertain. This incident highlighted the importance of public awareness and prompt medical response, especially in such critical situations.

Investigation Techniques and Impact of Hit and Run Events

Over the years, I have apprehended many hit and run drivers, ranging from property damage cases to fatalities. Each case involves meticulous investigation techniques to ensure a thorough understanding of the incident and the individuals involved. For example, a fatal hit and run occurred on a Sunday morning, around 9:00 AM, where a 5-year-old child was playing in his backyard when a drunk driver, who had been partying the night before, lost control and struck the child through a 6-foot wooden privacy fence. Panicked, the driver attempted to flee the scene but was caught two weeks later. This case involved a lengthy legal process, resulting in 7 total arrests, with the driver sentenced to 32 years in prison. Such cases often have profound impacts on communities, leading to increased public awareness and support from local organizations, such as outlaw motorcycle gangs, who sometimes assist in the resolution to save taxpayer money.

The broader impact of such cases can be seen in the community's efforts to improve road safety and support victims. These experiences underscore the importance of technology, investigation, and community support in addressing and resolving hit and run incidents.