Joshua I. Ross, 28, is wanted by Monessen police after allegedly kicking an officer in the chest during a traffic stop on Grand Boulevard. Ross was a passenger in a 2022 gray Nissan Altima pulled over for an inoperable license plate light, according to one report. Police requested the driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance, and asked one of the other passengers to exit the vehicle and be patted down. Ross was allegedly reaching into his pockets when officers noticed him. Ross fled the scene in his vehicle, and during the pursuit, his car struck one of the other passengers who had been pulled out of the vehicle. Monessen police received assistance from Rostraver Township, Charleroi Regional, and Pennsylvania State Police during the chase.

Accounts differ on the charges against Ross. One report states he is charged with aggravated assault, resisting arrest, eluding law enforcement, theft, possession of drug paraphernalia, reckless driving, and other offenses. Another report says he is wanted on charges including attempted aggravated assault, fleeing or eluding an officer, escape, and recklessly endangering another person. One outlet reports Ross faces 21 charges, including aggravated assault and escape, while another says he faces over 20 different charges.

According to one report, two officers deployed tasers during the incident, both of which were deemed unsuccessful. The two officers involved and the woman hit by the car are all okay, according to one source. One officer reportedly recognized Ross during the stop.