Danell Maxwell Wanted After Officer Shot; Girlfriend Detained as Statewide Manhunt Intensifies

A statewide manhunt is underway for 40-year-old Danell Maxwell, who authorities say is wanted for the attempted murder of a police officer following a shooting during a traffic stop in Memphis on the night of Feb. 26.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation issued a Blue Alert identifying Maxwell as armed and dangerous and warning the public he may be carrying a silver handgun. Officials say he is wanted on charges including criminal attempted first-degree murder of a Memphis police officer, aggravated assault, and employing a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony.

According to the Memphis Police Department, the officer who was shot sustained critical injuries but was reported to be in stable condition. The shooting reportedly occurred around 8:30 p.m. near the intersection of Perkins Road and Aloha Avenue in the Parkway Village area. Witness reports and local coverage indicated multiple patrol units responded, with numerous police vehicles seen heading toward downtown shortly afterward.

 

City councilman JB Smiley Jr. stated publicly that the incident happened during a traffic stop and condemned the attack, saying the officer and community remain in his prayers and that the suspect must be held accountable.

Authorities also confirmed that a woman believed to be Maxwell’s girlfriend was detained early Friday morning near Horn Lake Road and South Third Street in the Westwood Meadows area in connection with the investigation. Officials have not released her identity or specified any charges.

Investigators say an arrest warrant has been issued for Maxwell, who has been added to the state’s Most Wanted list. A reward of $2,500 is being offered for information leading to his arrest. Officials urge anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact law enforcement immediately and caution that he should not be approached.

The investigation remains ongoing, and further updates are expected as authorities continue searching for the suspect.