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Home > Blogs > West Chester News and Issues > Archives > 2009 > December > 29 > Entry
Investigation shows officer’s speed ‘excessive’ before near fatal crash
The investigation into the accident that nearly claimed the life of West Chester officer Nicholas Gattermeyer was released Monday, Dec. 28.
(A copy of the investigation is below). The investigation shows Gattermeyer was driving more than 101 mph down Dimmick Road (a 35 mph zone) en route to a burglary in progress just seconds before he crashed his cruiser into a tree.
Police Chief Erik Niehaus said he believed the speed at which Gattermeyer, 25, was traveling was unreasonable, and that when he returns to the force, he’ll likely face some sort of administrative sanction.
The investigation is below (split into two parts because of size). Click on the upper right corner to enlarge. Click again in the same spot to return to the blog.
Thoughts?
Permalink | Comments (4) | Post your comment | Categories: Crime, Courts, Police
Comments
By Thomas D. Porter
December 31, 2009 1:00 AM | Link to this
Got the chance to reviewed the facts on the accident investigation report, you’re one lucky man, Officer Nicholas Gattermeyer. However, please remember that it was your choosen actions that were responsible for your failure to arrive at the scene of the burglary in progress call. Let’s face it Nick, you were of no use to anybody on the call. And while you’re sworn to “enforce the law,” you are also required to obey the law! Failure to control, reckless operation of the public safety vehicle, failure to comply with your Departmental procedures for emergency response are some of the charges you’ll now likely to face. Be a responsible adult, don’t try to “hide behind your uniform and badge” just “face the music” and take your punishment. And by the way, please learn from this incident! Leave Beau Duke driving the “General” to “TV Fantasy Land” where it belongs!
By Bruce
January 25, 2010 7:28 PM | Link to this
The first poster said almost all that was needed, and I would guess is in law enforcement or fire service. My only question is why isn’t DA Robin Piper at least looking into some charges? From his past decisions, this very reckless act could have easily killed others, all for a very minor level of crime. I recall the firefighter case a few yrs ago, which was less severe than this. What if instead of a tree……..he had hit a minivan head on at 100mph with children inside. MAYBE then Piper would at least slap his wrist a few times!
By fortressdayton
February 2, 2010 5:39 PM | Link to this
DITTO to both. Unfortunately, as can be seen in the recent slew of cop and judge indiscretions, there is still a lot of the solid blue line and special favors determining the outcomes. Lucky man indeed.
By James
February 20, 2010 7:03 PM | Link to this
Wow!!! If that had been anyone other than a cop, they would be looking at time in jail, fines and court costs, and probably probation. Really people lets let those elected judges know how we feel. The officer should have to face the same consequences as everyone else that would be in that situation. I