Two Arrested After Stolen Vehicle Pursuit in Syracuse

Suspects fled police in a stolen car, leading to a chase and foot pursuit

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:18am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a damaged car sensor or broken glass, lit by a harsh, direct flash against a dark background, conveying the gritty, investigative nature of this property crime incident.The aftermath of a high-speed pursuit involving a stolen vehicle exposes the harsh realities of property crime in Syracuse.Syracuse Today

Two people were arrested on April 7, 2026, after a pursuit involving a stolen vehicle in a Lowe's parking lot in Syracuse, New York. The suspects, Jescy J. Townsend and Marcese Evans, allegedly stole merchandise from the store before fleeing in the stolen car, leading police on a chase that ended with the vehicle becoming disabled and the suspects fleeing on foot before being apprehended.

Why it matters

Vehicle thefts and retail theft are ongoing issues in the Syracuse area, with the pursuit highlighting the risks involved when suspects attempt to evade law enforcement. The incident also showcases the coordination between state police and local police departments in responding to such crimes.

The details

According to authorities, members of the Troop D Community Stabilization Unit received a tip that a stolen vehicle had entered the Lowe's parking lot. When police approached the vehicle, the driver, Jescy J. Townsend, put the car in reverse and struck an unmarked patrol vehicle, leading to a pursuit. The chase continued around the store, with Townsend driving onto a grassy area, down a hill, and into a marshy area, where the vehicle became disabled. Both Townsend and the passenger, Marcese Evans, then fled on foot before being apprehended with the assistance of the Syracuse Police Department.

  • The incident occurred on April 7, 2026, at approximately 3:58 p.m.
  • The pursuit took place in the Lowe's parking lot located at 131 Simon Drive in Syracuse.

The players

Jescy J. Townsend

A 28-year-old Syracuse resident who was the driver of the stolen vehicle and was charged with multiple offenses, including criminal mischief, criminal possession of stolen property, obstructing governmental administration, resisting arrest, grand larceny, and reckless endangerment.

Marcese Evans

A 24-year-old Bronx resident who was the passenger in the stolen vehicle and was charged with criminal possession of stolen property, obstructing governmental administration, grand larceny, and conspiracy. Evans also had an active bench warrant issued by the Syracuse Police Department.

Troop D Community Stabilization Unit

A specialized unit within the New York State Police that received the tip about the stolen vehicle and initiated the pursuit.

Syracuse Police Department

The local police department that assisted in the pursuit and apprehension of the suspects.

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What’s next

The suspects were arraigned in Onondaga County CAP Court and remanded to the Onondaga County Justice Center. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of coordination between state and local law enforcement agencies in addressing property crimes, as well as the dangers posed by suspects who are willing to flee and endanger public safety in an attempt to avoid arrest.