A manhunt is underway in Muscatine, Iowa, for Mark Lee Jackson, 59, who is accused of shooting a police officer during a foot pursuit on Friday evening. Jackson, of Des Moines, is wanted for attempted murder and is considered armed and dangerous, authorities said.
The wounded officer is recovering at home and is expected to make a full recovery, according to Muscatine Police Chief Anthony Kies. No civilians or children were injured during the incident, despite Jackson firing toward an area where bystanders were present, Kies added.
Suspect’s Actions and Wanted Status
Jackson was initially stopped by a Muscatine County Sheriff’s deputy on Friday evening for reckless driving. He evaded the deputy, continued driving at a high rate of speed, and crashed before fleeing on foot. Law enforcement located him several blocks from the initial stop and engaged in a foot pursuit.
During the pursuit, Jackson allegedly fired at officers, striking a Muscatine police officer in the elbow. He is now wanted on multiple warrants, including:
- Attempted murder of a Muscatine police officer and a Muscatine County deputy sheriff
- Parole violation through Iowa State Corrections
- Theft charges through the Muscatine Police Department
“Make no mistake: We will not stop until Mark Lee Jackson is located,” Kies stated. “Every law enforcement agency in this nation is going to look for him.”
Background and Warrants
Jackson has a criminal history, including active warrants for parole violation and theft. His last known residence is in Des Moines, Iowa. Authorities have not disclosed additional details about his background or prior offenses.
The manhunt remains active, with law enforcement agencies across the state and nation assisting in the search. No further updates on Jackson’s whereabouts have been released as of this report.