GOLD HILL, Ore. (May. 1, 2026) — Two unrelated men were arrested Thursday night following a reported shots fired incident near Gold Hill that led to a vehicle pursuit on Interstate 5 and a separate firearms arrest, according to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies were dispatched at about 8:44 p.m. Thursday after Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon received a 911 report that a man confronted a driver on Gold Ray Road over her speed, yelled at her, then fired a gun into the ground before firing toward her, the sheriff’s office said.
While responding, deputies spotted a truck matching the suspect description leaving the area at a high rate of speed. Authorities said deputies attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver fled toward Gold Hill, prompting a pursuit.
The truck was eventually disabled with spike strips, but continued northbound on Interstate 5 while riding on its rims, officials said. The vehicle later came to a stop, and the driver ran from the scene before deputies caught and arrested him.
The driver was identified as Jay William Oncher-Fontaine, 38, of Wolf Creek. Investigators said he had multiple felony warrants and showed signs of impairment.
Oncher-Fontaine was lodged in the Jackson County Jail on the outstanding warrants, as well as charges including attempting to elude police, driving under the influence of intoxicants, reckless driving and other offenses.
After the arrest, deputies determined Oncher-Fontaine was not connected to the reported shooting.
Deputies then returned to the Gold Ray Road area and found a second truck matching the original suspect vehicle description. Following a traffic stop, deputies arrested Frank Pennisi, 28, of Bandon.
A search of the truck uncovered two firearms, according to the sheriff’s office. Investigators said Pennisi admitted to firing shots in the area because he was upset with drivers traveling too fast.
Pennisi was booked into the Jackson County Jail on charges of menacing, unlawful use of a weapon and reckless endangering.
No injuries were reported.
The sheriff’s office said deputies were assisted by the Oregon Department of Transportation, Oregon State Police, Central Point Police Department, Jacksonville Police Department and Rogue River Police Department.
Both cases remain under investigation, and no additional information was immediately available.
All suspects are believed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law
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