Still, Mr. Timoney didn't forgo opportunities to be seen on the street. Rendell noted that Mr. Timoney - a marathoner and rower in his spare time - often patrolled the city by bike. He famously apprehended a purse-snatcher while jogging near Rittenhouse Square during his first week on the job. And on his last night as commissioner, Mr. Timoney, Chitwood, and another officer were on patrol when they encountered a gun battle. As the shooters fled into a nearby home, Mr. Timoney argued about who was going to lead the charge after them.