Missouri Woman Chases Down Sister’s Stolen Vehicle With Three Children In Her Car

Missouri woman Francesca Jones was arrested and charged on Sunday, June 18, after she chased her sister’s stolen car and began shooting at its passengers after the vehicle had burst into flames. The incident took place just 10 miles northwest of downtown St. Louis.

As reported by KSDK, 32-year-old Jones was charged with three counts of first-degree assault, three counts of endangering the welfare of a child, and three counts of armed criminal action.

According to the St. Louis County Police Department, who responded, Jones spotted her sister’s stolen 2020 Dodge Challenger just one day after it was taken. Even though she was with her three children and driving in a quiet St. Louis suburb, Jones began chasing the vehicle. Her pursuit led to the Challenger smashing into a truck at a busy intersection less than a mile from where the chase began. It caught fire from the collision.

As the driver and passenger attempted to climb out of the flaming car to get to safety, Jones began shooting at both of them. One reportedly shot back at Jones. Police were called to the scene following reports of the shots fired, and upon their arrival several eyewitnesses told them what they had seen of the incident.

The investigation is being handled by the St. Louis County Police Department. Jones is being held on a nearly $1 million bond, which must be paid in cash. Police found the gun she had used in the trunk of her car. The identities of the Challenger’s passengers have not been released.