Traffic Stop Leads to Major Fentanyl Seizure on Interstate 55
On April 17, 2026, at approximately 2:12 PM, Sheriff Bryant Wally Jones of the Pike County Sheriff’s Office attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a dark gray Honda Civic traveling northbound on Interstate 55, just north of the Summit exit.
The driver, identified as Tremail Richardson of Brookhaven, Mississippi, failed to stop and continued northbound before exiting at Dixie Springs. While on the exit ramp, a large quantity of suspected fentanyl pills was thrown from the passenger window of vehicle.
The vehicle came to a stop shortly thereafter, and Richardson was taken into custody without further incident. The passenger, identified as Berangton Wells of Wesson, Mississippi, was also taken into custody at the scene.
Richardson has been charged with multiple traffic violations, as well as fleeing/eluding law enforcement. Both Richardson and Wells have been charged with felony controlled substance violations related to the suspected fentanyl.
This seizure is believed to be one of the largest fentanyl recoveries in Pike County history. Fentanyl continues to be a dangerous and deadly drug contributing to numerous overdose deaths across our communities.
Sheriff Jones stated, “Fentanyl is claiming lives at an alarming rate. We remain committed to proactively and aggressively combating illegal drugs and crime in Pike County. Cases like this highlight the importance of strong law enforcement partnerships.”
Sheriff Jones would like to thank the deputies of the Pike County Sheriff’s Office, investigators with the Pike County Gang Unit, the Mississippi Highway Patrol, and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics for their assistance in apprehending the suspects and conducting the investigation.
The investigation remains ongoing. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.
Provided by the Pike County Sheriff's Office Public Relations Department.
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