Essex police detain three after stolen vehicle crashes during pursuit

ESSEX — On Thursday at approximately 6:56 p.m., Essex Police were called to assist Colchester PD with a stolen vehicle pursuit that entered their jurisdiction.

According to the Essex Police Department, Colchester officers were in pursuit of the stolen car when it fled into Essex.

Adhering to protocol, Essex officers did not engage in an active chase but instead provided support from a safe distance.

The pursuit ended on Pearl Street when the stolen vehicle crashed into another car and became disabled.

Essex officers quickly detained three individuals from the stolen vehicle.

The driver of the car struck by the stolen vehicle was able to exit her car and was transported to a local hospital, sustaining minor injuries not considered to be life-threatening.

Shauna Francis, 34, identified as the driver of the stolen vehicle, was arrested at the scene.

Francis, who is currently homeless from Burlington, also suffered minor injuries and was taken to the hospital.

The two male passengers in the stolen vehicle were detained, questioned, and later released at the scene.

The incident drew a coordinated response from multiple agencies, including Colchester Police, Essex Police, Williston Police, Winooski Police, Essex Rescue, and Essex Junction Fire Department.