A tense encounter unfolded in Raleigh on Tuesday afternoon as police attempted a traffic stop that escalated into a dangerous situation.

According to a report by WRAL News, officers tried to pull over a white Honda Accord along New Bern Avenue, leading to a chase involving gunfire. Two suspects remain at large following the incident.

The event occurred around 1:25 p.m. near the intersection of New Bern Avenue and Beacon Lake Drive, with aerial footage capturing the scene from above. Raleigh police were joined by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol and other agencies in their response. No officers were injured during the confrontation.

Suspects Identified in Dramatic Escape

Raleigh police identified the passenger as Jose Collado, 21, who reportedly exited the vehicle holding a firearm and fled on foot. During the pursuit, Collado discarded the weapon, which discharged upon hitting the ground, according to authorities.

The driver, Norvell Young, 19, stayed inside the Honda Accord initially but drove off as officers chased Collado. Police noted that Collado, who is known to law enforcement and resides nearby, escaped into a wooded area.

Investigators left the scene around 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday without apprehending either suspect. A search team was seen combing through nearby woods as part of the ongoing effort to locate Collado and Young.

Witness Recounts Startling Moment

Starlyn Graciano, a technician at Blue Flame Tires near the incident site, observed the chaotic scene unfold. “I saw a trooper go after him, so I stepped back and I heard a gunshot,” Graciano recalled.

He quickly retreated and alerted others to the danger. His account highlights the sudden and alarming nature of the event for those in the vicinity. Officers also gathered at a nearby tire shop as part of their investigation.

Charges Filed Against Fugitives

Authorities have charged Collado with possession of a weapon of mass destruction, possession of a firearm by a felon, and resisting, delaying, or obstructing an officer. These charges reflect the severity of the incident and Collado’s alleged actions during the chase.

Young faces a charge of felony flee to elude arrest for driving away from the scene. Police emphasized the risks posed by both suspects, given the nature of the encounter and the use of a firearm.

The search for the two men continues, with law enforcement maintaining a strong presence in the area. Residents have been urged to stay vigilant as the situation develops.

Lessons to Learn

1. Avoid approaching active police scenes. If you see officers pursuing a suspect or hear gunfire, keep a safe distance and avoid interfering. Witnesses like Starlyn Graciano made the right move by stepping back and warning others.

2. Stay aware of your surroundings when in public spaces. This incident happened in broad daylight on a busy city street. Awareness can help you act quickly in a rapidly changing situation, especially near high-traffic areas like tire shops or garages.

3. Report illegal activity when safe to do so. Police are depending on community cooperation for tips about these suspects. Prompt, safe reporting can make a difference. However, it’s important to remember that crime can happen to anyone, and victims or bystanders should never be blamed for circumstances outside their control.

Why This Story Matters

This story underscores the ongoing danger law enforcement officers can face during routine traffic stops and the potential risks the public may encounter in seemingly ordinary locations. It also highlights the importance of coordination between local and state authorities when serious crimes occur. Prompt public responses and tips could be critical in ensuring community safety and bringing dangerous suspects into custody without further incident. Finally, the escape of two charged individuals presents a public safety concern that demands attention from residents and media alike.

Conclusion

On Tuesday afternoon, around 1 p.m., Raleigh police attempted a traffic stop near New Bern Avenue and Beacon Lake Drive when Jose Collado, 21, fled on foot with a firearm, which discharged as he ran. Simultaneously, Norvell Young, 19, drove away in the white Honda Accord, evading capture. Multiple agencies joined the search, but both suspects escaped.

Collado faces multiple weapons charges, including possession of a weapon of mass destruction, while Young is charged with felony fleeing. Although no injuries were reported, their disappearance has left the community on edge. Police have since asked the public to be vigilant and report suspicious activity as the manhunt continues.