Hero on Horseback Helps Police Catch Driver
In an extraordinary display of community heroism, a local mounted rider and his horse became unlikely crime-fighters when they helped Riverside Township police capture a hit-and-run driver. The rider, known as “PJ,” and his horse Shiny witnessed the accident and took immediate action that proved crucial in solving the case.
The incident demonstrates how ordinary citizens can make extraordinary differences in their communities when they choose to act responsibly and courageously. PJ’s quick thinking and horsemanship skills turned what could have been an unsolved hit-and-run into a successful arrest within hours.

Image Source: NJBreakingNews.com
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Witness to Hit-and-Run Takes Action
PJ was riding Shiny through Riverside Township when he witnessed a vehicle strike another car and immediately flee the scene. Rather than simply calling police and waiting, PJ made the split-second decision to pursue the fleeing driver on horseback, using his elevated position and mobility to track the suspect’s movements.
According to New York Post, PJ was able to follow the vehicle at a safe distance while observing crucial details about the car and its license plate. His unique vantage point from horseback allowed him to maintain visual contact with the fleeing vehicle longer than would have been possible on foot or in a car navigating traffic.
Critical License Plate Information
During the pursuit, PJ managed to obtain a partial license plate number from the fleeing vehicle, information that proved instrumental in the suspect’s eventual arrest. He immediately contacted police dispatch to relay this crucial detail along with a description of the vehicle and the direction it was traveling.
The partial license plate information provided police with the specific lead they needed to identify and locate the suspect vehicle. Without PJ’s quick action and accurate observation skills, investigators would have had significantly fewer leads to pursue in the case.
Police Credit Gallant Efforts
Riverside Township police officials publicly praised PJ and Shiny for their “gallant efforts” in assisting with the investigation and arrest. The police department emphasized that PJ’s actions exemplified the kind of community cooperation that makes law enforcement more effective and communities safer.
According to Good News Network, the police department noted that civilian assistance of this kind is relatively rare but incredibly valuable when it occurs. The officers involved in the case expressed gratitude for PJ’s willingness to get involved and his skill in providing useful information.
Community Celebrates Real-Life Heroes
The story of PJ and Shiny has captured the imagination of local residents, who have celebrated the duo as real-life heroes. Community members have praised both PJ’s courage in pursuing a fleeing suspect and his responsibility in providing crucial information to law enforcement rather than attempting to confront the driver directly.
Social media posts about the incident have generated widespread positive response, with many residents expressing pride in having such dedicated community members. The story has also sparked discussions about civic responsibility and the importance of citizens working cooperatively with law enforcement.

Image Source: NJBreakingNews.com
Successful Arrest and Case Resolution
Thanks to PJ’s assistance, police were able to locate and arrest the hit-and-run suspect, bringing the case to a swift conclusion. The arrest demonstrates the effectiveness of community-police partnerships and the difference that alert, responsible citizens can make in solving crimes.
According to Reuters, the successful resolution of this case has prompted police departments throughout New Jersey to highlight the importance of witness cooperation in traffic-related crimes. The incident serves as a model for how citizens can assist law enforcement while maintaining their own safety.
The hit-and-run case resolution also provides closure for the victim of the original accident, demonstrating that justice can prevail when community members like PJ choose to act responsibly and courageously. The story of PJ and Shiny continues to inspire residents and serve as a reminder that heroism can come in many forms, including on horseback in Riverside Township.
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