Palmer Lake hit and run suspect asked to turn himself in

(PALMER LAKE, Colo.) — The Palmer Lake Police Department (PLPD) is asking the suspect of a hit-and-run to turn himself in so that he can give his side of the story to officers.

According to PLPD, on Sunday, June 23, at around 8:15 p.m., police were called to the intersection of Highway 105 and Westward Lane. Officers’ initial information was that the crash involved a truck and motorcycle. Several witnesses saw the crash and ran to the aid of the motorcyclist, who was thrown off the motorcycle and lying on the roadway with what appeared to be serious injuries.

The motorcyclist was identified as David Mitchem. When officers and medical personnel responded to the scene he was conscious and breathing. Mitchem was taken to the hospital with serious injuries and is in the ICU, according to PLPD.

Witnesses saw two suspects in the truck who left the scene without checking or exchanging any information with others. Police tried to locate the suspects but were unsuccessful. Witnesses gave officers a description of both suspects.

PLPD said the driver was later identified as Brent Gilmer who lives in Palmer Lake. Police have tried to contact Gilmer who had not responded and police are searching for his whereabouts.

Police later learned that Gilmer was allegedly posting to social media about the crash. PLPD in the interest of gathering all information related to its investigation has asked Gilmer to turn himself in to discuss the incident with officers and give his perspective.

“If he truly is innocent of the accusations made against him, then he holds vital information that the PLPD needs in order to ensure proper justice for the victim and his family,” writes PLPD.

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