Bump and Run Auto Thefts PSA

Sgt. Jarius Daugherty of the APD Public Affairs Unit Warns Drivers About Scooter Bump and Run “Accidents”:

Beware of scooter riders who bump into your vehicle and feign injuries. Some criminals are using scooters as part of their crime arsenal and victimizing unsuspecting drivers. Scenario: The scooter rider will bump into your car from behind and pretend to be injured, and once you get out to check on that person, their accomplice, will join the act and enter your vehicle-both will then flee with your valuables. While most vehicle accidents are truly accidents, some can be a set up for a slider crime, carjacking and/or robbery. If you are in doubt, call 911 and wait for police assistance.

The Atlanta Police Department wants the public to stay safe and be mindful in certain accident scenarios. If someone hits your vehicle from behind on a scooter or car, as in a bumping you just enough to get your attention, we ask that you do the following:

• Lock your doors.
• Do not get out of your vehicle.
• Call 911-give location and any details of driver(s) or other vehicles by using your inside mirrors.
• If you must move your vehicle, drive to a well-lit, populated area or a police precinct and call 911.
• Wait for police/ambulance to arrive before assessing the damage or checking the person who hit you on a scooter.

Again, most accidents are truly accidents and are not cause for alarm. We ask you to pay attention to your surroundings and the situation. If it doesn’t feel right, call 911 and wait. Reducing crime and keeping the community safe is our top priority. We will use all available resources to identify and arrest persons who commit crimes in this City. Working together we can make and keep our beloved city safe and get criminals off the streets. If you see something suspicious or criminal, call 911.