By: Richard L. Smith
A routine traffic stop in Burlington City led to two arrests and the recovery of firearms, armor-piercing ammunition and a stolen military ballistic vest, according to Burlington City Police.
Officers stopped a vehicle near Green Street and St. Mary Street for traffic violations when the driver, Nasir Johnson, 21, reportedly jumped out and attempted to enter a nearby home despite officers’ commands.
Police said Johnson was taken into custody but later slipped out of his handcuffs and attempted to run. Officers quickly stopped him.
During the investigation, officers allegedly discovered that a rear-seat passenger, De Andre Gaston, 22, was carrying a loaded handgun and armor-piercing ammunition.
A subsequent court-authorized search of the vehicle uncovered another stolen firearm loaded with armor-piercing ammunition, a large-capacity magazine and a stolen military ballistic vest, authorities said.
Gaston faces weapons-related charges, including unlawful possession of a handgun and possession of armor-piercing ammunition.
Johnson was charged with obstruction, resisting arrest with injury and escape.
Police said the investigation remains active, and additional charges are possible.