Rochester, NY – A Monroe County man is back in custody after allegedly escaping law enforcement Saturday morning, triggering a large-scale search across Rochester and surrounding areas.
According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began around 3:05 a.m. Saturday, May 2, when deputies identified a stolen vehicle through a license plate reader. The driver, later identified as Eric J. Fountain, 37, of Scottsville, allegedly provided false information to deputies during the stop. Investigators say they discovered a large quantity of illicit and prescription drugs, along with drug paraphernalia, inside the vehicle.
Fountain was taken into custody but later complained of shoulder pain and was transported to a local hospital. After being released and taken to the Public Safety Building for processing, Fountain allegedly escaped custody, injuring a deputy during the incident before fleeing toward Court Street near the Genesee River.
Authorities say a coordinated, countywide response was quickly launched, involving multiple agencies including local police, state police aviation, K9 units, and specialized teams. Surveillance footage and public safety cameras were used to track the suspect while crews conducted systematic searches of nearby buildings and waterways.
At approximately 1:45 p.m., Fountain was located hiding inside a large drainage pipe beneath the Court Street bridge. Officials say the discovery was aided by Monroe County Water Authority cameras and a tactical robot from the Greece Police Department. Fire crews assisted in safely removing him from the confined space.
Fountain now faces multiple felony and misdemeanor charges, including alleged drug possession, resisting arrest, and escape. He was also wanted by U.S. Marshals on a federal probation violation warrant.
The injured deputy’s condition has not been fully detailed.
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