SCOTTSBORO, AL — July 26, 2025 — A massive manhunt is currently underway in Scottsboro, Alabama, after a police officer was shot early Saturday morning during a vehicle pursuit that ended in gunfire. Authorities have identified the suspect as 29-year-old Daniel Victor McCarn, a former Huntsville resident who is now believed to be residing in Scottsboro.
The shooting occurred near the intersection of U.S. Highway 72 and County Park Road, prompting a rapid and heavily coordinated response from Scottsboro Police Department, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, and multiple state and federal law enforcement agencies.
Timeline of Events: Domestic Call Leads to Pursuit and Shooting
According to officials, the sequence of events began shortly before 1:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 26, when Scottsboro police officers responded to a domestic violence call on Ruth Street.
Upon arrival at the scene, the suspect — later identified as Daniel McCarn — reportedly fled in a vehicle, initiating a high-speed pursuit through parts of Scottsboro. The chase came to a sudden end when McCarn crashed at the intersection of Highway 72 and County Park Road.
As officers attempted to apprehend him, McCarn allegedly exited the vehicle and opened fire, striking one of the pursuing officers. The wounded officer was quickly transported to Huntsville Hospital, where he is currently being treated. The extent of the officer’s injuries has not yet been publicly disclosed, but officials confirmed that he is alive and under medical care.
Following the shooting, McCarn fled the scene on foot, disappearing into the surrounding area. Law enforcement has since launched a multi-agency manhunt, using K-9 units, drones, helicopters, and ground teams to track the suspect.
Suspect Considered Armed and Dangerous
The Scottsboro Police Department has issued a public safety alert warning residents to stay indoors and report any suspicious activity. McCarn is described as a 29-year-old white male, approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighing 260 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes.
Authorities stressed that McCarn should be considered armed and extremely dangerous, and anyone who sees him is urged not to approach but to immediately contact law enforcement.
“This is an extremely dangerous situation,” said Scottsboro Police Chief Ron Latimer in a morning press briefing. “Our primary concern right now is the safety of the public and bringing this suspect into custody as quickly and safely as possible.”
Multi-Agency Response and Ongoing Investigation
As of Saturday afternoon, local, county, and federal law enforcement agencies — including the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), U.S. Marshals, and FBI — are actively assisting in the search.
Officials have set up a perimeter in the area surrounding the crash site and are conducting door-to-door searches. Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and processing the scene of the crash and shooting for evidence.
The name of the injured officer has not been released, but colleagues and community members have begun rallying in support. Messages of solidarity and prayers have poured in from across the state.
Public Urged to Remain Vigilant
Residents in the area are being asked to check home surveillance cameras and report anything unusual. Police are also encouraging people to lock their doors, secure vehicles, and avoid the area near County Park Road and Hwy 72 until further notice.
Anonymous tips can be submitted to Scottsboro Police or Jackson County Crime Stoppers at (256) 574-2610.
“This community stands behind our officers,” said Jackson County Sheriff Chuck Phillips. “We will not rest until this suspect is found.”
Ongoing Updates
This is a developing story. The Scottsboro Police Department has stated that additional updates will be released as they become available. A press briefing is expected later this evening to provide the latest developments in the case.
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