UPDATE: A statewide Blue Alert is in effect across Tennessee as authorities intensify the search for Danell Maxwell, the prime suspect in the shooting of a Memphis police officer late Thursday evening. The incident occurred around 8:15 p.m. in the Parkway Village neighborhood, raising alarms and prompting a public manhunt.
The Memphis Police Department (MPD) officer, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, was injured while responding to the incident and is currently in critical but stable condition at Regional One Medical Center. Community leaders, including Memphis City Councilman JB Smiley Jr., are rallying local prayers for the officer’s swift recovery.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) issued the Blue Alert shortly before midnight, indicating the serious nature of the attempted murder charge against Maxwell. This alert, similar to an AMBER Alert but specifically for violent crimes against law enforcement, mobilizes media, electronic billboards, and wireless alerts to expedite the suspect’s capture.
Maxwell, a 40-year-old resident of Memphis, is described as being 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing approximately 180 pounds. He was last seen wearing dark clothing and an orange and green reflective vest, which potentially aided his escape. Authorities warn the public that he is armed with a silver handgun and should be considered extremely dangerous.
As of today, February 27, 2026, Maxwell remains at large, with the alert active statewide. The TBI is coordinating with the MPD and has urged the public to report any sightings or information via 1-800-TBI-FIND or 901-528-2274. Tips from the community are crucial, as similar cases have been solved rapidly through anonymous submissions.
The issuance of a Blue Alert reflects the critical nature of incidents like this, highlighting the risks law enforcement officers face daily. Although such shootings are statistically rare, the potential for serious injury or fatality to officers is alarming. The FBI reports approximately 60 felonious killings of officers occur each year nationwide, a trend that has raised concerns about officer safety in urban areas like Memphis, where violent crime rates have surged in recent years.
As the manhunt continues, the TBI and MPD are employing advanced technology, including license plate readers, to aid in the search. The multi-agency response marks a significant effort to safeguard the community and ensure that Maxwell is apprehended swiftly.
The urgency of this situation cannot be understated. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately. The community’s cooperation is essential in bringing Maxwell to justice and ensuring the safety of all citizens.
In conclusion, the shooting of an MPD officer has spurred a high-stakes Blue Alert, merging urgent law enforcement action with community appeals for information. While the officer’s stable condition offers a glimmer of hope, capturing Maxwell remains paramount to averting further danger. Stay tuned for updates as this developing story unfolds.
