What began as a routine traffic stop involving 29-year-old Jose Coiscou-Mercedes and his passenger, 27-year-old Brandy Perez, in St. Albans Town on the evening of August 24, 2025, quickly turned into a chaotic and dangerous series of events that ended with two suspects in custody, a car wrecked, and police uncovering both drugs and a discarded firearm.
According to authorities, officers initiated the stop after receiving a citizen’s report of suspected drug activity. The vehicle, driven by Coiscou-Mercedes with Perez as his passenger, was initially pulled over without incident. But instead of cooperating with police, Coiscou-Mercedes sped away in a reckless attempt to avoid arrest.
The pursuit led police down Swanton Road, where the suspect vehicle ultimately crashed. Undeterred by the wreck, both Coiscou-Mercedes and Perez fled on foot into a wooded area nearby. Police officers, assisted by backup units, quickly tracked them down and placed both individuals under arrest.
During the search of the area, officers made several troubling discoveries. Investigators recovered a loaded firearm that had been discarded during the suspects’ escape, raising concerns about the potential danger to officers and the public. In addition, police seized cocaine from the suspects, further linking them to the drug-related activity that initially prompted the citizen’s call.
Both Coiscou-Mercedes and Perez were transported to jail, where they are now facing a lengthy list of charges. These include resisting arrest, attempting to elude police, possession of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of a firearm, and grossly negligent driving. Authorities noted that the reckless behavior displayed during the pursuit could have easily resulted in serious injuries or fatalities, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Local law enforcement praised the quick thinking of the citizen who reported the suspicious activity, as well as the rapid response and coordination of officers that led to the suspects’ capture before further harm could occur.
The case remains under active investigation, and police say additional charges may be filed as the inquiry continues.
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