Fleeing Billings Resident Hits And Kills Two

Fleeing from police is an excellent way to make matters worse.

Ricky Buchanan just learned this the really hard way.

Last Sunday evening the 13th, Buchanan was involved in an altercation and disturbance in a parking lot at 29th Street West and Broadwater.  When Billings Police arrived, he bolted the scene in his car, running over grass and a sidewalk then speeding eastbound on Broadwater.

At 24th Street West, Buchanan slammed into another vehicle, killing both passengers at that intersection.  The momentum sent both cars into a third, injuring four others.

In way too deep at this point, Ricky sprinted off on foot.  The police chase lasted for many blocks until the 1800 block of Wyoming Avenue, where the suspect was apprehended and arrested.

The List of Charges, Before and After

In his early 30s, Ricky Buchanan was facing charges of partner family member assault, aggravated kidnapping, intimidation and fleeing/eluding.  He was probably looking at only a few years in prison, likely less than ten and probably out sooner for parole.  All these were prior to the run, hit and run.

Now Buchanan now has two counts of negligent homicide and four counts of felony criminal endangerment.  He can now look forward to many more years behind bars.  He may get out in time to collect Social Security.

The Takeaway for You

When a law enforcement officer approaches you, don't run away.  That sends the clear message to them that you committed a crime, you know you committed a crime, and you know you are guilty of a crime.  On top of that, you are risking others with the flight, adding to the rap sheet.

Don't like an officer coming for you?  Here's a great idea: don't commit a crime.  They will then happily leave you alone.

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