If you’re looking to get rid of criminal evidence, you’re probably best off not publicizing it on the Internet.
The driver who struck a vehicle in Lakewood early yesterday morning and fled the scene, was nabbed after the damaged vehicle showed up online for sale.
A reader notified us TLS about the vehicle for sale after he noticed the damage matched what he believed made sense for the damage done, based on the surveillance video. TLS immediately turned in the evidence to the Lakewood Police Department.
Patrolman Alex Guzman and Ptl. David Mercado of the Traffic Safety division along with the Detectives Bureau investigated the listing, and with assistance of Manchester Police were able to trace the car to a residence in Manchester.
The owner of the vehicle pointed the pair to the driver of the vehicle.
He was charged by Manchester Police for DUI, and by Lakewood Police for; Leaving the Scene of An Accident, Failure to Report an Accident, and Careless Driving.
“I’d like to thank Ptl. Guzman and Ptl. Mercado, the Detectives Bureau, The Lakewood Scoop and the reader who submitted the information which led to apprehension of the suspect,” Police Chief Greg Meyer stated. “It’s a perfect example of the community and law enforcement working together to keep Lakewood safer.”
Lakewood Police are looking for a driver who struck a parked vehicle early this morning and fled the scene. pic.twitter.com/5Ehl3i4xRq
— The Lakewood Scoop (@LakewoodScoop) May 21, 2023
Patrolman Guzman is a good man
Great teamwork!! And especially to TLS for getting the word out.
As the owners of the damaged car, we wish to express our great appreciation and admiration to those who helped solve this mystery. We are inspired and grateful for this awesome community team effort.