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Veteran in Chandler hit-and-run speaks to ABC15

Posted at 6:12 PM, Apr 11, 2016
and last updated 2016-04-12 01:09:18-04

A Valley veteran who tried to save a woman from her alleged abuser is out of ICU and talking for the first time about that day. 

"I remember waking up, but I don't remember from what though." said Steven Richardson, an Army veteran.

Richardson's family had to fill him in on what happened. He and friend, Jeromy Cullen, were running an errand when they spotted a woman being dragged through a fast food restaurant parking lot by her hair

Richardson pulled over and tried to stop the alleged abuse, but a man got into an SUV and ran him over. Monday, Chandler police identified the suspect as 18-year-old Coby Gibson.

"The type of person he is and for what he's done, not only to me but to that woman, he doesn't deserve anything nice." said Richardson, who took a close look at the photo police released. 

Richardson has severe head trauma and is now suffering from limited memory. Doctors told his wife they aren't sure he will ever remember that day he stepped in to help.

But even with his injuries, Richardson says he has no regrets and would do it again. 

"No other person is going to do it just standing there, so why not me? I kinda wish I could still get to see her and make sure she's alright." said a concerned Richardson. 

"I'm honestly am just proud, I'm proud call him my husband, I am the lucky one here," said Samantha Richardson, Steven's wife.

Samantha says her husband has always been passionate about helping people in need, so when she heard what had happened she could believe it. 

Richardson has a message for anyone who might find themselves in the same situation. 

"If you're in a position and you can't get away from it, tell somebody. There's somebody out there that will help you out and if you can't find me, I'll help you."  he said. 

Friends have started a GoFundMe page to help with Richardson's medical expenses.

Meantime, Chandler police are still looking for Gibson.  If you've seen him, they would like to hear from you.