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VALDOSTA, Ga. (WALB) - On Tuesday, Nov. 18, a maintenance worker was conducting a routine test drive after completing mechanical work on a marked police vehicle.

During his drive, the employee encountered a traffic accident. The individual was not a sworn law enforcement officer and was unfamiliar with protocol at that moment, which is why he was unable to stop at the scene, police say.

The City of Valdosta Police Department and the City’s Maintenance Department are aware of the community’s concern.

“We want to reassure our community that we take all complaints and concerns seriously. Upon learning of the incident, both departments immediately began reviewing the circumstances to ensure all procedures are followed appropriately and consistently,” said officials from the Valdosta Police Department. “The issue was addressed with the maintenance employee, and both departments are reinforcing internal training and communication related to vehicle testing, emergency protocols, and expectations when operating marked public safety vehicles”.

Officials say they will complete an internal review and will continue to work to strengthen departmental practices to prevent something like this from happening in the future.

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