Trenton Resident Helps Police Catch Armed Suspect

Andrew Haggard was driving home from the store when he spotted someone running from police in his Trenton, Ohio neighborhood. Within seconds, he made a split-second decision that would help end a string of car break-ins and get a stolen gun off the streets.

Haggard pulled over and helped tackle the fleeing suspect, holding him down until officers arrived. The suspect had just hidden a firearm stolen during recent vehicle burglaries that had plagued the community.

"There's kids all over that neighborhood," Haggard explained. "I heard her say gun. That was my main thing. You can't have no dude running around with a gun with all these kids out here playing."

Trenton police had been investigating multiple car break-ins where thieves stole wallets, laptops, and firearms. Using drones and home surveillance footage, officers identified three suspects and located them this week.

The arrests didn't come easy. One suspect fought officers and had to be tased before being taken into custody. That individual now faces charges for resisting arrest and drug possession.

A second suspect admitted to stealing a firearm from a vehicle on April 15 and was charged with felony theft. The third suspect, the one who ran, now faces charges including receiving stolen property, having weapons under disability, and tampering with evidence.

Sunny's Take

What stands out isn't just Haggard's courage. It's his clarity about why he acted. He wasn't seeking recognition or playing hero. He saw children playing outside and a dangerous situation unfolding, and he did what felt right.

Police Chief Patrick Carr praised both the community assistance and his department's investigative work. The combination of modern technology like drones, traditional surveillance footage, and old-fashioned community cooperation led to a successful resolution.

The two juvenile suspects were taken to Butler County Juvenile Detention Center, while the adult suspect went to Middletown Jail. Thanks to one resident's willingness to help, all three are off the streets and a stolen gun is back in police custody.

Sometimes keeping our communities safe takes everyone pitching in.