The Valley Chronicle - PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS - November 9, 2017ng

Hemet pedestrian killed in traffic collision

Hemet Police Officers responded to a traffic collision near the intersection of Lyon and Florida avenues in the city of Hemet on Halloween evening around 9 p.m. Officers arrived on scene and discovered a 2005 Dodge pickup truck had collided with a pedestrian in the 100 block of S. Lyon Avenue. The pedestrian was seriously injured and was transported by ambulance to a local trauma center where he succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the pick-up truck was not injured and remained on scene where he cooperated with investigators. The pedestrian was identified by the Riverside County Coroner’s Office as Robert Orrell, 53, of Hemet. According to HPD, the collision did not involve trick-or-treaters. The driver of the Dodge pick-up truck was traveling south on Lyon Avenue at about 25-30 mph. The pedestrian was walking near the middle of Lyon Avenue and had crossed the roadway at least twice. One witness reported the pedestrian may have been talking to another person on the east side of Lyon Avenue, and was walking back and forth across the roadway. The pedestrian was wearing dark colored clothing and walked in front of the pickup truck when he was struck. The driver of the truck is not suspected of DUI, however, evidence located at the collision scene indicates alcohol may have played a role with regard to Orrell. Lyon Avenue between Florida Avenue and Acacia Avenue was closed for approximately two hours while the investigation was conducted.

Simpson Park warning

The Hemet Sheriff’s station is conducting zero-tolerance patrols in and around the Simpson Park area, according to the Hemet Sheriff’s Station. The park has been closed to the public due to fire hazards for several months, and the increased patrols are in response to multiple complaints by residents of people using drugs, excessive noise and littering, said Lt. Hall. Vehicles found in the area will be cited and/or towed. Deputies have already issued several citations and impounded vehicles in the area. “If the vehicle can be towed, it will,” said Hall.

Mission statement from Hemet Police Chief Dave Brown

We at the Hemet Police Department are proud to carry on the 100 year history of providing superior service and protection to our residents, merchants and visitors. Today, we face significant challenges as we provide law enforcement services to an ever changing community, with fewer resources and reduced manpower. I am proud to represent the fine men and women – sworn, civilian and volunteer – who make up this great department. There is much talk about “community based policing” across America. The reality is that the Hemet Police Department has always been a true community police department. Our ranks are comprised of mostly valley residents who have a personal stake in keeping our community safe. As such, our strong commitment to addressing quality-of-life issues will continue to drive our decisions and deployment of resources.