MANASSAS, Va. — A total of 24 teams competed in a 3-on-3 basketball tournament on Saturday for a recovering police officer who was hit by a car by someone who was texting while driving, police said.
Aside from bragging rights, teams participated in the tourney and shootout challenge at the Boys and Girls Club in Manassas to show support for Officer Heather Munsterman, and to draw attention to a nationwide problem: texting while driving.
Munsterman on July 13 was struck by a driver that police said was texting while driving as she was conducting a routine traffic stop in Manassas. She suffered fractures to her ankle and pelvic area, a dislocated shoulder and a concussion along with severe bruising across her entire body, and is currently undergoing rehab.
Munsterman’s family, fellow police officers, friends, volunteers and supporters came out to celebrate Saturday’s event, which included a challenge to claim “King of the Court”, moon bounces for younger participants, face painters, a concession stand and a variety of vendor booths; all eager to donate their time and resources for a great cause.
Delegate Richard Anderson, R-Prince William, also attended the event. Anderson is the author of the recently passed texting while driving bill that makes it a primary offense to send a text message while behind the wheel of a vehicle.
Additional attendees were Harry Parrish II, Manassas City Mayor, Lawrence Hughes, Manassas City Manager, Douglas Keen, Manassas City Police Chief, George Logan, G Team Sports, Inc., Glenn Vickers, Regional Director for the Prince William County / Manassas Boys & Girls Club; all who reiterated the message of safe driving practices and applauded the courage and strong-will of a devoted officer.
The event was hosted by Rocky Parrish, a local radio personality and longtime co-host of the “Kevin & Rock Show.”. Parrish acknowledges the universal problem and states,
“What happened to Heather is unfortunate. I wouldn’t want that to happen to me or anybody else. I’m definitely going to be mindful of that,” said Parrish.
Manassas Police Chief Douglas Keen was encouraged by the days’ events.
“This is the essence of Manassas; when things like this happen the community comes together,” said Keen.
He is optimistic that the community will also take with it a message.
“Let that phone call or text message wait. Pull over and take the call if you need to,” explains Keen.
Musterman’s accident is one that could have been avoided, but thankfully she is recovering.
“We are all extremely lucky to have Heather with us,” he said.
The winning team for the fundraising event was Makafui Dogbatse, and the winner of the shootout challenge was Tyc Snow.
All proceeds raised at the event benefit Heather Munsterman, injured in the line of duty.
