FAYETTE COUNTY — The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office is searching for a 45-year-old man who fled from a traffic stop Thursday near Farina.

According to the sheriff’s office, deputies conducted a traffic stop around 5 a.m. Thursday on northbound Interstate 57 near Farina.

While speaking with the driver outside the vehicle, the passenger – now identified as 45-year-old Russel Rodriques Darnell – climbed into the driver’s seat and fled the traffic stop in the 2024 Infinity SUV.

The vehicle was later located just north of a cemetery near 185 and 750 Avenue. Darnell reportedly fled on foot in an unknown direction.

A search of the area was conducted and the subject is still presumed to be in the area.

The male subject is identified as Russel Rodriques Darnell, approximately 45 years old. Darnell is a black male with short dreadlocks, is approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall, and was wearing a black jacket and blue jeans when last seen.

If you locate Darnell, law enforcement says you should not approach him. Instead, contact the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office @ 618-283-2141 or your area law enforcement immediately.