Statewide Manhunt in Texas After Officer Injured, Blue Alert Issued

In the early hours of Friday morning, Texas authorities launched a statewide manhunt for Seth Altman, a 33-year-old suspect, following an incident involving the injury of a law enforcement officer. Altman, who was last seen in Memphis, Texas—approximately 80 miles south of Amarillo—is wanted in connection with this case, as reported by the Texas Department of Safety.

According to authorities, Seth Altman is linked to the “killing or serious injury of a law enforcement officer.” Described as a white male, standing 6 feet 2 inches tall, weighing 220 pounds, with blue eyes and red or auburn hair, Altman was last seen in the 200 block of South Fourth Street in Memphis around 11 p.m. on Thursday. He was reportedly wearing a blue T-shirt and blue jeans at the time.

The suspect is deemed armed and dangerous. Law enforcement advises the public not to approach him but to contact 911 immediately if he is spotted. Reports indicate that Altman is believed to have shot a police officer multiple times on Thursday night. The officer was subsequently airlifted to a hospital, although details concerning their condition remain undisclosed.

The Texas Department of Safety has enacted a Blue Alert, a system established in 2008, aimed at swiftly apprehending suspects believed to be responsible for the killing or serious injury of law enforcement officials. Under this program, specific criteria must be met before an alert is issued.

Memphis, Texas, located in Hall County, is part of the southeastern Panhandle, east of the High Plains. According to the Texas Almanac, the county had a population of just under 3,000 as of 2019. The purpose of Blue Alerts is to disseminate information to the public rapidly, thus hastening the process of capturing suspects involved in such serious offenses.

As this story is developing, updates will be provided as more information becomes available.