Hit and Run Accident Ideas?

[Jenna]

Heya Gang...one of my closest friends and next best thing to my Dad has an issue. Over the weekend his daughter's car was hit while parked in a Target parking lot in Houston. It wasn't just a nick or dent...but major damage to the door, tire, etc. Upon asking the store for video tapes, etc they were useless and said they didn't have a cam on that particular parking isle. I suggested cam footage on the exits as well as possibly surrounding area. The officer they made contact w/ pretty much blew the whole thing off. I normally would too, but there is significant damage and he's my bud. I am wondering if you have any suggestions or ideas for how he may want to pursue this. I gave him a few, but figured you guys may have some better ideas and input. Thanks!!

[OfcMikey]

Jenna,
I would suggest talking to the store manager and if that is not successful, contact the district manager.
Time is important, since some businesses reuse their tapes weekly, bi-weekly or monthly.
So if the incident or suspect vehicle is on the tape, it could be taped over if action is not taken in a timely fashion.

Honestly, based on my dept, the insurance company will put much more effort into finding the offending vehicle, than most PD's will. The insurance company has a financial interest in the outcome and will usually investigate more thoroughly than a PD will.

Best Wishes,
Mike

[SLG]

Hey Jenna; Here in Arkansas that is considered to be a civial matter and is not a police matter since it did not happen on the city street or state highway. But i would still let the insurance company take care of it .

[txinvestigator1]

In Texas it would not be filed as a traffic report, but could be taked as reckless destruction.


Texas Penal Code
§28.04. Reckless damage or destruction.

(a) A person commits an offense if, without the effective consent of the owner,
he recklessly damages or destroys property of the owner.

[PD_Webmaster]

I agree with the above... Let the Insurance comapny handle it.... Unless he didnt have coveage for this.

However they are right, in most area's this would be considered civil and police officers tend not to get involved. Speak with the manager is also good advise.

[CXT_180]

As someone mentioned before, since it didn't happen on a municipal street, the accident would be ruled no-fault anyway...*Shrug* Although the individual could still be cited for leaving the scene of an accident. I'd say just let the ins. co. handle it. It really sucks not being able to help out your friend, but that seems the best course of action in this course.
:(