If it were a Civic, there'd be only a rent-a-cop with a carbon copy form. Am glad that the forensics unit was able to come out. With this much $$$ in damage and sooo much proof, should be an easy conviction in court. Don't let the person pull an OJ on you.

Any word on insurance rates? Since it was not a collision the rates *shouldn't* be raised, but at $26,000... If you can, hold off for a quick trial and conviction (if a suspect is known) and sue for damages. Same thing your insurance company plans to do. If you do it by yourself, you lose time and effort, but can save the insurance rate hike by not claiming the damage with your insurance company and just sue the suspect's directly.