Viral Video Shows Van Driver Giving Armed Police Officer a Lift During Foot Chase, Helps Catch Fleeing Suspect

A van driver in East Kent, England, is being hailed as a local hero after stopping his vehicle to help armed police officers chase down a fleeing suspect. The dramatic incident, captured on video, has gone viral on social media, with many praising the driver's quick thinking and willingness to assist law enforcement.

The incident took place around midday on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, after Kent Police responded to reports of a serious assault on High Street in the Thanet district. As officers arrived at the scene, the suspect fled on foot towards Tivoli Road, prompting a chase through nearby streets.

Van Driver Gives Armed Police Officer a Lift During Foot Chase

The now-viral video begins with an armed police officer sprinting after the suspect. Moments later, a passing van driver notices the pursuit, stops his vehicle and offers the officer a lift. The officer quickly climbs into the back of the van, allowing the chase to continue at speed.

Thanks to the driver's timely intervention, officers were able to catch up with the suspect, who was arrested shortly afterwards.

Kent Police have since praised the unnamed motorist for his public-spirited actions and confirmed that he has been recommended for a commendation.

Speaking about the incident, Armed Policing Superintendent Will Lay said the suspect was attempting to evade capture and nearly escaped by running through a nearby park. Canada Viral Video: Woman Escapes Grizzly Bear Attack While Hiking With Dog, Terrifying Chase Caught on Camera.

"A violent offender who was being relentlessly pursued, and was seeking to evade capture, came close to losing patrols in a nearby park. However, our armed officers remained committed," Lay said.

He added that the driver's actions played a crucial role in the successful arrest.

"Thanks to the quick and selfless actions of this responsible and public-spirited driver, officers were able to apprehend the dangerous individual. The successful arrest may not have been possible without the member of the public and his vehicle." Georgia: Woman Narrowly Escapes Death After Being Knocked Down by High-Speed Train While Posing for Picture in Tbilisi, Video Goes Viral.

Lay further said the driver should feel proud of helping keep the community safe and thanked him for his assistance.

The video has attracted widespread attention online, with social media users applauding both the driver's initiative and the officers' determination during the pursuit. Many described the moment as an example of effective cooperation between the public and police in preventing a suspect from escaping.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 27, 2026 11:51 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).