GOLD HILL, Ore. — Deputies with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office arrested two unrelated suspects Thursday night following a reported shots-fired incident that led to a vehicle pursuit and separate investigation.
According to the sheriff’s office, the incident began around 8:44 p.m. on April 30, when dispatchers with Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon received a report of a man confronting a driver on Gold Ray Road. The suspect allegedly yelled at the driver about her speed before firing a gun into the ground and then in her direction.
As deputies responded, they located a truck matching the suspect’s description leaving the area at a high rate of speed. A pursuit was initiated as the vehicle fled toward Gold Hill. Deputies deployed spike strips, successfully disabling the truck, but the driver continued northbound on Interstate 5 on damaged wheels before eventually stopping. The suspect then fled on foot but was quickly apprehended.
The driver was identified as Jay William Oncher-Fontaine, 38, of Wolf Creek. Authorities said he had multiple felony warrants and showed signs of impairment. He was lodged in the Jackson County Jail on his outstanding warrants and additional charges, including attempting to elude police, driving under the influence of intoxicants, and reckless driving.
Following his arrest, deputies determined Oncher-Fontaine was not connected to the reported shooting.
Deputies returned to the scene and located a second truck matching the original suspect description. A traffic stop was conducted, and Frank Pennisi, 28, of Bandon, was taken into custody.
Investigators said a search of Pennisi’s vehicle uncovered two firearms. Pennisi allegedly admitted to firing shots in the area, telling deputies he was angered by drivers traveling too fast. He was lodged in the Jackson County Jail on charges of menacing, unlawful use of a weapon, and reckless endangering.
Multiple agencies assisted in the response, including the Oregon State Police, Oregon Department of Transportation, Central Point Police Department, and Rogue River Police Department.
Both cases remain under investigation, and no additional information has been released.
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