Suspect in Jacksonville Officer shooting Apprehended After Days-Long Manhunt
JACKSONVILLE, TX – The suspect in the shooting of a Jacksonville police officer has been arrested, ending a four-day manhunt, authorities announced today. Dennis was taken into custody after fleeing into a wooded area following a confrontation with the officer on November 3rd.
Police Chief Steven Markasky detailed the events, stating the officer was patrolling the 1100 block of Churchill Street when she encountered Dennis, who had outstanding warrants in cherokee County for obstruction and retaliation. Law enforcement had been searching for Dennis since early October.
According to Chief Markasky, the officer approached Dennis, identifying herself as “Mr. Dennis” and requesting he approach her. As she moved behind his residence, Dennis allegedly produced an AR-15 and began firing. The officer sought cover behind her patrol unit, which was struck by several rounds, and her K-9 partner, Renzo, was also hit.
Despite being struck once in the arm and falling to the ground, the officer continued to retreat under fire, eventually reaching a wooded area where she was shot again in the leg while attempting to call for help. Dennis then fled as backup units arrived.
“Her bravery and will to survive under gunfire represent the very best of what it means to wear this badge,” Markasky said.
Notably, Markasky emphasized, “At no point during this incident did the officer fire or even draw her weapon.” He also confirmed the K-9 was never deployed from the vehicle.
The injured officer was flown to a Tyler hospital and underwent emergency surgery. She is currently stable and recovering. K-9 Renzo is also receiving treatment at an emergency vet clinic in Tyler.
The manhunt prompted Jacksonville ISD to cancel classes. Gov. greg Abbott announced a $10,000 reward for facts leading to Dennis’s arrest and added him to the Texas 10 Most Wanted fugitives list prior to his capture.
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