UPDATE: A statewide Blue Alert has been issued by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) after a Memphis police officer was shot in a shocking incident that unfolded late Thursday evening. The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Danell Maxwell, is now the focus of an urgent manhunt across Tennessee.
The shooting occurred around 8:15 p.m. near South Perkins Road and Cottonwood Road in Memphis’s Parkway Village neighborhood. The officer, whose name has not yet been released, was struck by gunfire and has been transported to Regional One Medical Center. As of Friday morning, the officer is in critical but stable condition, prompting community prayers and support from local leaders, including Memphis City Councilman JB Smiley Jr..
The TBI activated the Blue Alert shortly before midnight, a serious public safety notification akin to an AMBER Alert. This alert is specifically designed for violent crimes against law enforcement, signaling the gravity of the attempted first-degree murder charge against Maxwell.
Authorities have described Maxwell as standing 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing approximately 180 pounds. He was last seen wearing dark clothing and an orange and green reflective vest, raising concerns as he is believed to be armed with a silver handgun. Officials warn that he should be considered armed and dangerous, raising the stakes for public safety not just in Tennessee but potentially affecting neighboring states like Arkansas and Mississippi.
While little is known about Maxwell’s background, the manhunt involves coordinated efforts between the TBI and the Memphis Police Department. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact them at 1-800-TBI-FIND or 901-528-2274. Public tips can be crucial, as similar cases have been resolved swiftly through community assistance.
Blue Alerts are implemented in Tennessee when an officer suffers serious injury from a fleeing perpetrator. These alerts mobilize media coverage, electronic billboards, and wireless notifications to expedite the suspect’s capture. The TBI typically leads investigations into assaults on police officers, reflecting a proactive approach to officer safety.
Statistically, incidents like this are rare but have profound implications. The FBI reports around 60 felonious killings of officers each year in the United States, with attempted murders amplifying risks. Memphis has seen rising violent crime rates in recent years, making incidents like this even more alarming for residents.
As of February 27, 2026, Maxwell remains at large, and the Blue Alert is still active statewide. Law enforcement agencies are prepared for federal involvement should Maxwell cross state lines, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. The multi-agency approach reflects evolving safety protocols for officers in light of heightened risks since 2020.
The community’s role is vital in this manhunt. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and report any sightings of Maxwell immediately. The officer’s stable condition offers a ray of hope amidst the tension, but capturing Maxwell is of utmost importance to prevent further danger.
As this situation develops, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of the community and supporting the injured officer through this challenging time. Stay tuned for updates as authorities continue their search for Danell Maxwell.
