Authorities continue to search for two male juveniles who remain at large following a police pursuit that led to road closures, a Walmart evacuation, and a significant law enforcement presence in Schuylkill County on Sunday afternoon.
According to Pennsylvania State Police Troop H Public Information Officer, Trooper Megan Frazer, the incident began around 12:40pm, Sunday as a motorist driving north on Interstate 81 near mile marker 57.1 in Silver Spring Township observed a red Toyota Tundra point a firearm at other motorists.
The vehicle would be located by PSP Harrisburg on Interstate 81 near mile marker 78 in West Hanover Township, Dauphin County, and a traffic stop would be initiated. The truck initially stopped but then fled.
The vehicle fled off Interstate 81 to the area of 7000 Manor Drive in West Hanover Township where an occupant fired multiple rounds from a pistol at Troopers striking one their vehicles. The vehicle fled again and reentered Interstate81 north, eventually exiting the highway at the Frackville Exit.
The pursuit followed Route 61 south ultimately ending in St. Clair, where the four individuals involved fled after their vehicle became disabled. Two suspects were taken into custody, while two others fled the scene and are actively being sought by law enforcement.
As of late Sunday night, Pennsylvania State Police confirmed that the two suspects entered the St. Clair Walmart at the general merchandise entrance, where they discarded some of their clothing and shoplifted new attire in an effort to alter their appearance. The suspects then exited the store through the southeast emergency exit.
State Police have provided the following descriptions of the two individuals at large:
- Male #1: Jeremiah Begley, White/Non-Hispanic Male, 17 years old, 5’8” tall, weighing 172 lbs, with brownish/auburn hair. Last seen wearing a Nirvana T-shirt, identical to the one shown in released photos.
- Male #2: White Male with a darker complexion, heavier build, last seen wearing grey sweatpants and a black shirt.
A perimeter has been established, and State Police helicopters continued to circle the area as of 11:00 p.m. Sunday night. Residents are urged to remain vigilant, report any suspicious activity, and avoid the area if possible.
Authorities are asking anyone with information on the suspects’ whereabouts to contact PSP Frackville at (570) 874-5300.
