Reward offered as WPD investigates hit and run of sign at Armed Forces Park

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 3, 2017
 
Contact: Blake Collins, bcollins@woonsocketri.org, office: (401) 762-6400 ex: 2963, cell: (508) 838-3371
 
Reward offered as WPD investigates hit and run of sign at Armed Forces Park
Chief Oates and Mayor Baldelli-Hunt announce $500 reward for information leading to suspect
 
WOONSOCKET, R.I.: Chief Thomas Oates and Mayor Baldelli-Hunt today announced that the City is offering a $500 reward for information leading to the identification of a motorist believed to have destroyed the sign at United Veterans Council of Woonsocket Armed Forces Park on Davison Avenue in a hit and run on February 24. Armed Forces Park was constructed and dedicated in 2014 in the memory of the many Woonsocket veterans who served their country in all branches of the armed forces.
 
“The Woonsocket Police Department is actively investigating a hit and run involving a motor vehicle that destroyed the sign outside of Armed Forces Park,” said Chief Thomas Oates. “Today the Mayor and I are announcing a $500 reward for information that we hope will lead to the identification of a suspect. The destruction of public property is a matter we take seriously and consider this case a top priority for the department.”
 
A caller reported damage to the sign to Woonsocket police at approximately 11:00 pm on Friday, February 24. Woonsocket police are currently on the lookout for a 2004 GMC pickup truck based upon evidence left at the scene of the hit and run. Additionally, a witness has told police that a black pickup truck was seen in the area around the time the damage was reported.
 
“I am disheartened to see the destruction of the beautiful sign that visitors first see at our City’s Armed Forces Park,” said Mayor Lisa Baldelli-Hunt. “Not only is this public property, but this park is a monument to the brave men and women of this community that faithfully served this country – some even making the ultimate sacrifice. I understand that accidents happen but this is very upsetting to me and our community because of the sign’s prominent stature at our veterans memorial. I urge anyone with information to come forward to the Woonsocket Police Department.”
 
The site has been cleared of debris and the City is identifying next steps to replace the sign. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Detective David Wahl at the Woonsocket Police Department – anonymously or not – at (401) 767-2383.
 
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