UPDATE: A statewide Blue Alert has been activated in Tennessee following the shooting of a Memphis police officer late Thursday evening. Authorities have identified Danell Maxwell, 40, as the prime suspect in this alarming incident that has left the community on high alert.
The shooting occurred around 8:15 p.m. in the Parkway Village neighborhood, specifically near South Perkins Road and Cottonwood Road. The officer, whose identity remains undisclosed, was struck by gunfire and is currently in critical but stable condition at Regional One Medical Center. Community leaders, including Memphis City Councilman JB Smiley Jr., are rallying for the officer’s swift recovery amidst this troubling situation.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) issued the Blue Alert shortly before midnight, which is a rare emergency notification used when law enforcement officers are seriously injured. This alert signals the severity of the situation and the charge of attempted first-degree murder against Maxwell.
Authorities describe Maxwell as a Memphis resident, 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, which may have been used to enhance visibility during his flight. Officials warn that he is armed with a silver handgun and should be considered armed and dangerous, prompting heightened vigilance across Tennessee and potentially into neighboring states like Arkansas and Mississippi.
As of February 27, 2026, Maxwell remains at large, reinforcing the urgency of public involvement in the ongoing manhunt. The TBI and Memphis Police Department are actively seeking tips from the community and encourage anyone with information to reach out via 1-800-TBI-FIND or 901-528-2274.
What is a Blue Alert? Blue Alerts are activated when an officer is seriously injured by a suspect who has fled the scene. This system mobilizes media, electronic billboards, and wireless alerts to expedite the capture of the suspect. The swift response from law enforcement highlights a commitment to officer safety, especially in light of rising violent crime rates in Memphis.
While incidents of this nature are rare, they carry a profound impact on community safety and officer morale. The FBI reports an average of 60 felonious killings of police officers each year across the nation, with attempted murders like this case adding to the urgency for swift justice.
As the search intensifies, law enforcement agencies are leveraging advanced technology, including license plate readers, to track Maxwell’s movements. The public’s role remains crucial; anonymous tips have successfully led to the capture of suspects in similar cases.
In summary, the attempted murder of a Memphis police officer by Danell Maxwell has ignited a critical Blue Alert, reflecting a crucial intersection of law enforcement action and community vigilance. As the officer fights for recovery, the immediate focus is on apprehending Maxwell to ensure public safety. Residents are urged to stay alert and report any sightings or information promptly.
