SEPTA transit police officer set to return to work after hit-and-run

PHILADELPHIA (WTXF) - For the first time in 18 months, SEPTA Transit Police Officer Gary Miller will be wearing the badge once again.

"I got hit. I flew in the air. I came down and the guy left me for dead," he told FOX 29.

It's hard to imagine Miller is even alive today. In June of 2016, Miller was on a run with his wife through Mayfair. On Rowland Avenue, Miller was struck by a speeding car. Police say the driver took off. The impact left Miller in critical condition with broken legs, a broken collarbone and a concussion. He was in the hospital for more than a month and off the job ever since.

But since that day, Miller never gave up.

"He's the strongest person, I love him to death."

Helped by his wife, children and his strong faith in God, the 14 year police veteran was bound to recover and return to his job as a police officer.

A few weeks after the crash, police arrested 35-year-old Jeffrey Sickel in connection with the hit- and-run.

And believe it or not--they forgive him.

"The guy that hit me. I pray for him" Both Miller and his wife forgive and still pray for him

"There is a power and strength of the Lord Jesus Christ. These are the fruits of the spirit that he taught us about. Long suffering, patience understanding"

"I forgave him because if I don't-- how are we going to move on?" Clara Miller said.

Miller spent months rehabbing at home. Medals show the races he's run to get back in shape. He says he wants to put the accident behind him and focus on getting back to work protecting the passengers of SEPTA.