Good Samaritan Tackles Suspect Fleeing From Police
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- A Good Samaritan tackled a man who was fleeing from police downtown Friday afternoon, leading to the suspect's arrest.
The incident began on 5th Avenue at Cherry Way in downtown Pittsburgh sometime Friday afternoon.
According to the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office, a deputy was driving along 5th Avenue when he saw a man walk into traffic and almost get hit by at least three vehicles. The deputy believed the man appeared to be under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
The man, later identified as 47-year-old Joseph Anthony Ruiz of Pittsburgh, told the deputy two different names when identifying himself. While the deputy was verifying the information, Ruiz fled on foot, and the deputy pursued. At the intersection of Smithfield Street and 5th Avenue, a Good Samaritan tackled Ruiz, and the deputy apprehended and handcuffed him.
Police say the Good Samaritan then left the area without providing his name to the deputy.
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Ruiz continued to provide false information until 35-year-old Diane Litzinger, of Penn Hills, arrived on the scene and provided the correct information. The deputy then verified that Ruiz was wanted on four separate warrants, all involving retail thefts, and Litzinger was wanted for failure to appear at her sentencing on a DUI offense. Ruiz has also been charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and false identification.
Ruiz and Litzinger are being held without bond at the Allegheny County Jail.
The Allegheny County Sheriff's Office says they would like to present the Good Samaritan with an award of commendation for his assistance, and he should contact the sheriff's office at 412-350-4714.
