WEST PALM BEACH, FL — Massive Manhunt Underway After Police Officer Shot During Early-Morning Altercation
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — A massive manhunt is currently underway in West Palm Beach after a police officer was shot in the early morning hours of Monday during a violent altercation. Authorities have identified the suspect as 22-year-old Emmanuel Keevon Dashawn McRae, who is now the focus of an intense multi-agency search effort across Palm Beach County.
Early-Morning Violence Erupts
According to the West Palm Beach Police Department, officers were dispatched to the 300 block of Baker Drive at approximately 2:00 a.m. following reports of a disturbance in the neighborhood. What began as a routine response quickly escalated into a life-threatening situation when the suspect allegedly opened fire on arriving officers.
One officer was struck during the exchange. The injured officer, whose identity has not been released, was rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency medical treatment. As of Monday morning, officials have not disclosed the officer’s condition, but sources say the situation remains serious.
Suspect Identified and Considered Armed and Dangerous
Investigators swiftly identified the suspect as Emmanuel Keevon Dashawn McRae, a 22-year-old man described as approximately 5 feet 11 inches tall, with brown hair and brown eyes. Authorities warn that McRae is considered armed and extremely dangerous, and the public is strongly urged not to approach him under any circumstances.
Law enforcement officials are treating the situation as a critical public safety threat.
“This individual has already shown he is willing to use lethal force against law enforcement. We are doing everything in our power to bring him into custody safely, but we need the community’s cooperation,” said West Palm Beach Police Chief Frank Adderley during a brief press conference.
Large-Scale Manhunt Launched
In response to the shooting, law enforcement agencies across Palm Beach County and surrounding jurisdictions have mobilized in a coordinated effort to locate and apprehend McRae. Units from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Highway Patrol, U.S. Marshals, and other partner agencies have joined the operation.
Helicopters, K-9 units, and tactical response teams have been deployed in what police are calling one of the largest manhunts in recent West Palm Beach history. Officers have been canvassing neighborhoods, setting up checkpoints, and reviewing surveillance footage in the area surrounding Baker Drive.
Community on High Alert
The West Palm Beach Police Department is urging residents—particularly those living near the Baker Drive corridor—to remain extremely vigilant and to report any suspicious behavior or individuals that may resemble McRae.
“We are asking everyone in the community: check your security cameras, look out your windows, and call us if you see anything out of the ordinary. Do not attempt to confront this suspect,” said WPBPD spokesperson Sgt. Daniel Herrera.
Increased police presence and patrols are expected throughout the day and evening. Residents should expect temporary road closures, increased traffic stops, and a heightened law enforcement footprint as the investigation continues.
How to Report Information
Anyone with information on McRae’s whereabouts is urged to take action immediately. You can:
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Call 911 if McRae is seen or suspected nearby
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Contact the West Palm Beach Police Department at (561) 822-1900
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Submit anonymous tips via Crime Stoppers at 1-800-458-TIPS (8477)
Officials stress that time is of the essence in capturing McRae before anyone else is harmed.
Investigation Ongoing
As the search continues, detectives are working to piece together the events that led to the early-morning violence. It is unclear what sparked the initial altercation or whether McRae has ties to the local community. Authorities are also exploring whether he may have fled on foot or had access to a vehicle following the shooting.
There has been no word yet on possible accomplices, but police are not ruling out the possibility that McRae is receiving assistance to avoid capture.
Community Support and Prayers for Officer
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the West Palm Beach community, where residents and local leaders are rallying around the injured officer and their family.
Messages of support have been pouring in across social media, with many using the hashtag #WPBStrong to show solidarity with the police department.
“Our hearts go out to the brave officer injured in the line of duty and to the entire West Palm Beach Police Department. We pray for a full recovery and for the swift capture of the suspect responsible,” said Mayor Keith James in a statement released Monday morning.
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