They're known for running into burning buildings, but Coquitlam firefighters can now add crime fighting to their list of duties.

Police thanked the department after firefighters helped catch the driver of an alleged hit-and-run Monday afternoon.

The incident began around 2: 30 p.m. after the driver hit a parked car along the 1500-block of Pinetree Way near Robson Drive.

Coquitlam Fire and Rescue crews were dispatched to the scene and before police could arrive, the driver took off.

That's when the firefighters decided to step in.

One fleet-footed member followed the driver on foot up a hill for a distance until Mounties picked up the chase.

Assistant chief Greg Mayberry said the department usually doesn't assist in police matters, but the firefighters in this case felt it was safe to pursue the driver. The driver likely never had a chance, as the assistant chief noted the member is a marathon runner.

"He wasn't going to get away," he said.

As for the driver, Mayberry said police arrested him at his home.

jdeutsch@thenownews.com