CHESTER – On July 3, 2026, a Randolph County Sheriff’s Office Deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a vehicle traveling South on State Route 3 after observing multiple traffic violations, including speeding and improper lane usage.
The driver failed to stop and fled from law enforcement, leading deputies on a pursuit through rural Randolph County and into the City of Chester. During the pursuit, the vehicle reached speeds of approximately 90 mph, repeatedly crossed into oncoming traffic, failed to stop at multiple intersections, and drove in a reckless manner that posed a significant danger to the public.
The Chester Police Department assisted during the pursuit by successfully deploying stop sticks, damaging the vehicle’s tires. Despite the damaged tires, the driver continued fleeing into Chester while committing numerous additional traffic violations. The pursuit ultimately ended near the Randolph County Courthouse, where the driver, Brandi N. DeRousse, was safely taken into custody without further incident.
Following her arrest, DeRousse was evaluated by emergency medical personnel before being transported to the Randolph County Jail. Her age and city of residence was not disclosed.
Sheriff Peters said, “Fortunately, no law enforcement officers or members of the public were injured during the incident.”
One Chester Police Department patrol vehicle sustained minor damage.
DeRousse was cited for the following offenses:
- Improper Lane Usage
- Reckless Driving
- Speeding More Than 40 MPH Over the Posted Speed Limit
- Aggravated Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Peace Officer
- Aggravated Battery
- Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Peace Officer
- No Valid Registration
- Operating an Uninsured Motor Vehicle
This incident remains under investigation. Additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.
All suspects are presumed to be innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.