Traffic Stop on I-70 Uncovers Significant Drug and Stolen Handgun Bust

FREDERICK, Md. – A routine traffic stop on Interstate 70 led to a significant drug seizure and the arrest of a Baltimore man, according to a press release from the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office. The incident, which occurred on the evening of March 4, 2026, involved a deputy observing a vehicle traveling westbound near New Market exhibiting equipment violations and failing to maintain its lane.

During the stop, the deputy identified the sole occupant of the silver Acura MDX as John Tyrell Gross Jr., 35, of Baltimore. The deputy noticed an item commonly used for concealing narcotics, a disguised soda can. A K-9 unit was dispatched to the scene and indicated the presence of narcotics. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed approximately 64.6 grams of suspected fentanyl, about 18.4 grams of suspected cocaine, and multiple pills believed to be controlled substances. Drug packaging materials and a digital scale were also recovered. Authorities also found a KAHR Model P380 handgun, which was loaded and found to be stolen from Virginia.

Investigators further determined that Gross is legally prohibited from possessing firearms due to prior convictions. Gross was taken into custody and transported to the Frederick County Adult Detention Center – Central Booking. He faces a multitude of charges, including multiple counts of possession with intent to distribute controlled dangerous substances, possession of a large amount of controlled dangerous substances, and various firearm-related offenses such as possessing a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, distribution of controlled dangerous substances with a firearm, illegal possession of a regulated firearm, possession of a firearm with a felony conviction, possession of a stolen regulated firearm, illegal possession of ammunition, and handgun violations. The Frederick County Sheriff’s Office is requesting that anyone with additional information regarding this case contact them at 301-600-1046 or submit a tip through their tip line at 301-600-4131.

The Frederick County Sheriff’s Office is a comprehensive law enforcement agency serving over 290,000 residents of Frederick County. The office is committed to crime prevention, the protection of life and property, maintaining peace and order, enforcing laws, safeguarding constitutional rights, and the safekeeping of prisoners. The FCSO emphasizes its dedication to upholding the highest standards of performance and ethics to nurture public trust.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office.

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