Drone Technology Aids Police in Capturing Fugitive in Sumner County

A drone in Sumner County played a crucial role in capturing a dangerous fugitive from Memphis. This story highlights the growing importance of drone technology, especially thermal drone technology, in law enforcement and emergency response.

Drone Assists in Fugitive Capture

Police in Hendersonville were on the hunt for a dangerous fugitive from Memphis. It was midnight, and the suspect had ditched his car, taking off on foot in a quiet neighborhood. Officers on the ground had no idea where he went. But what the suspect didn’t know was that a silent drone was following him from above, guiding the police to his hiding spot.

“A squad car is here and then here he is and he’s going to jump the fence,” said Mickey Summers with Sumner County EMA.

The drone’s night vision and thermal imaging cameras allowed it to track the suspect undetected, leading to his capture.

Drones: A Game-Changer for First Responders

Drones are making a significant difference for first responders. They can see things from high above that no one else can, making them invaluable in search and rescue missions.

For example, recently a drone helped find a missing girl in Louisiana, partnering with searchers to locate the child safely.

Sumner County EMA currently has eight drones that can operate with 30 minutes of sustained flight, night or day. These drones are now standard for emergency responders in most counties, demonstrating their effectiveness in various scenarios.

The Impact of Drone Technology

Drone technology is quiet and equipped with advanced features like night vision and thermal imaging cameras. This makes them particularly useful in situations where stealth and precision are crucial.

In one instance, a drone helped locate a man hiding in a cornfield who had threatened to harm himself.

“If you can see he is just standing there,” Summers said. “Within three minutes we had him located in a cornfield with a drone.”

Officers then talked him out safely, highlighting the life-saving capabilities of drones.

DroneXL’s Take

The use of drones in law enforcement and emergency response is a testament to the technology’s potential. As seen in Sumner County, drones can make a real difference in capturing fugitives and saving lives. This story underscores the importance of integrating drone technology into public safety efforts.

For more on how drones are being used in similar ways, check out our recent articles on drones for good and first responders.

What are your thoughts on this article? Leave your comments below!

Photos courtesy of the Sumner County EMA.