A routine traffic stop turned into a bizarre low-speed pursuit through multiple apartment complexes in Gainesville late Friday night, ending with the arrest of a man driving on a revoked license.
According to the Gainesville Police Department (GPD), the incident began around 9:39 p.m. on May 31, when an officer observed a 2015 blue Ford Fusion make an illegal U-turn against a red light near SW 23rd Terrace and Archer Road. The officer attempted a traffic stop, but the driver, later identified as 35-year-old Jerry Wayne Brunson Jr., refused to comply and drove into the Brandywine Apartments.
Brunson initially stopped and spoke briefly with officers but refused to turn off the engine or show his hands. Within moments, he pulled away and began a slow-speed drive through the complex. The strange chase continued through adjacent apartment areas including Hidden Village, as police attempted to block exits with patrol vehicles.
Despite officers’ efforts, Brunson navigated around the blockades and continued onto Old Archer Road, SW 16th Avenue, and SW Archer Road, ignoring traffic signals and nearly colliding with other vehicles. Due to safety concerns, officers made the decision to end the pursuit after approximately three miles.
Roughly ten minutes later, officers located the Ford Fusion abandoned in Butler Plaza with a flat tire. A short search led them to Brunson, who was found sitting in the passenger seat of another vehicle registered to his wife.
Police say Brunson was taken into custody without further resistance.
After being read his Miranda rights, Brunson admitted to fleeing due to fear of the police. He stated that he might have complied if he had been in a well-lit area with someone else present. He also claimed he was unaware that his driver’s license had been revoked since April 9, 2025.
Brunson is now facing charges of fleeing law enforcement with active lights and sirens and driving with a revoked license. His criminal record reveals a troubling history — including three prior felony convictions, two of which were for fleeing law enforcement, and three misdemeanor convictions.
No injuries were reported during the chase, and police vehicles did not sustain damage.
This incident adds to growing concerns about how law enforcement engages in pursuits within residential areas. While the Gainesville Police Department followed protocol by calling off the chase due to public safety risks, the case raises further questions about high-risk traffic stops and pursuit policies in dense housing areas.
