Escaped Alabama inmate captured while stopping at Buc-ee's in Melissa

Pierson Anthony, Collin CO Jail
Melissa, TX - An escaped inmate from Alabama was captured Sunday afternoon at the Buc-ee’s in Melissa.
What we know:
Melissa police were alerted to a vehicle linked to the inmate’s escape after a Flock camera flagged it near the Buc-ee’s in Anna around 4:45 p.m. on Jan. 26.
The inmate, identified as 25-year-old Pierson McKinnley Anthony, was located in the parking lot. When the vehicle exited and began driving north on the frontage road, officers conducted a high-risk felony traffic stop.
Anthony surrendered without incident.
Officers later discovered the driver of the vehicle had an active felony warrant for aiding Anthony’s escape. Both Anthony and the driver were taken into custody and remain in the Collin County Jail while awaiting extradition to Alabama.
Anthony has been charged with a third-degree felony.

LULING, TEXAS - JUNE 12: The Buc-ee's convenience store is seen on June 12, 2024 in Luling, Texas. The Texas-based convenience store and gas stop, Buc-ee's has become the world's largest convenience store with over 100 gas pumps and a 75,000 square f
The backstory:
Anthony escaped custody in Marion County, Alabama, more than 600 miles from Melissa. The drive from Marion County to the Buc-ee’s location takes about nine and a half hours without traffic.
What they're saying:
"This is an example of how effective Flock technology can be in the apprehension of wanted fugitives from across the country," said Melissa Police Chief Erik Stokes in a statement.
What we don't know:
Authorities have not released details about Anthony’s original charges.
The driver’s identity and relationship to Anthony have not been disclosed.
The Source: Information in this article comes from Melissa police and Collin County Jail records.