A manhunt for Craig Berry, a retired Special Forces veteran accused of shooting his wife, entered its fifth day as law enforcement agencies scoured a remote area of northern Tennessee. Authorities describe Berry as armed, dangerous, and highly skilled in survival tactics, making the search particularly challenging.
Core Facts & Immediate Action
Berry, 52, allegedly shot his wife during a domestic dispute in the early hours of May 1 in Stewart County, Tennessee. He fled into nearby woods before deputies arrived, prompting a large-scale manhunt involving local, state, and federal agencies. A second-degree attempted murder warrant was issued for Berry on May 4.
Deeper Dive & Context
Search Efforts and Suspect’s Background
Law enforcement, including the U.S. Marshals Service, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and Tennessee Highway Patrol, are conducting a detailed search of the area, focusing on River Trace Road, Highway 79, and portions of Highway 232. Authorities believe Berry may still be in the vicinity, though they have not ruled out the possibility of outside assistance.
Berry is described as an excellent swimmer and diver with extensive survival training. A trail camera captured an image of him wearing camouflage clothing, and officials confirmed he is armed with at least one handgun and possibly additional ammunition. His wife’s condition remains undisclosed.
Law Enforcement Strategy
Authorities used a bloodhound to track Berry in the hours after the shooting, as seen in newly obtained video. Sheriff Frankie Gray warned that the search could be a lengthy process due to Berry’s familiarity with the terrain and his survival skills. The sheriff’s office urged the public to report any suspicious activity.
Unanswered Questions
Investigators have not confirmed whether Berry has a phone or other means of communication. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and no additional details about the domestic dispute have been released.