Police: Witnesses help catch deadly hit-and-run driver

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – A man on a motorcycle was killed when he was struck by a vehicle on the northeast side of Indianapolis Thursday morning, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officials said.

It happened shortly before 7 a.m. near East 40th Street and North Keystone Avenue.

According to police, the striking vehicle left the scene after the crash. They say witnesses at the scene followed the car after the driver took off. Police were able to apprehend the suspect near the fairgrounds after speaking with witnesses who were able to lead them to the suspect.

Police say the motorcyclist was heading southbound on Keystone before he was hit. The motorcyclist was wearing a helmet and was not speeding. Police believe the driver of the striking car was under the influence of alcohol. Officers found a beer can and a bottle of vodka in the vehicle.

According to a witness on the scene she tried to help the motorcyclist after the wreck. She said the fact that so many others tried to help gives her hope.

IMPD blocked off traffic for sometime.

24 Hour News 8, has learned the suspect is a 51-year-old William Briscoe Jr., who has been arrested for burglary, theft, and stolen property.

When police arrested Briscoe he had several questions for officers according to statements in the police reports.

” How is guy on the motorcycle,” said William Briscoe Jr.

Time passed, and then he asked again saying,” How is the other guy,” said Briscoe.

Finally police asked the suspect if he had been drinking.

His response, ” I had a couple,” said Briscoe.

A nearby tire shop captured a glimpse of the motorcycle driving by security cameras.

Moments later, the motorcycle rider went out of frame, and that’s when the crash happened.

Officers have yet to release the victim’s identity, as they attempt to notify the next of kin.