A manhunt is currently in progress for a suspect connected to the shooting of Memphis, Texas Police Chief Rex Plant. Law enforcement agencies, including the Texas Rangers, are searching for 33-year-old Seth Altman.
The incident occurred around 11 p.m. on Thursday when Chief Plant and another officer were executing an arrest warrant for burglary. Altman allegedly fired upon them and fled the scene after exiting through the back door. Chief Plant was taken to a hospital in Lubbock, where he is reported to be in stable condition.
A Blue Alert has been issued, along with an arrest warrant for Attempted Capital Murder. Law enforcement officials have advised that Altman was last seen wearing a blue shirt and jeans and that anyone encountering him should not approach but rather call 911.
Memphis, Texas, where the shooting took place, is located about 130 miles northeast of Lubbock, in northern Hall County, and has a population of around 2,000 people.
Governor Greg Abbott has announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to Altman’s capture. The Texas Department of Public Safety has also placed him on their 10 Most Wanted Fugitive List. Governor Abbott emphasized the importance of supporting law enforcement officers, who risk their lives daily, and urged anyone with information about the incident to contact the Texas Crime Stoppers hotline or submit an anonymous tip online.
Chief Rex Plant and the other officer were serving an arrest warrant for a residential burglary when the shooting occurred. After being shot, Chief Plant was airlifted for medical treatment.
Seth Altman, described as a 6 foot 2 inch white male weighing around 220 pounds with blue eyes and red or auburn hair, is considered armed and dangerous.
The FBI’s Dallas Field Office is also involved in the search for Altman and is offering an additional reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to his arrest. Citizens are encouraged to report tips via the FBI’s website or by calling the FBI directly. All tips are anonymous, and those providing information will receive a tip number to maintain their confidentiality.