SCOTTSBORO, AL — July 26, 2025 — A Scottsboro police officer is recovering after being shot during a pursuit early Saturday morning, prompting a massive manhunt for the suspect, identified as 29-year-old Daniel Victor McCarn, a former Huntsville resident now living in Scottsboro.
The incident has triggered an extensive multi-agency response and widespread concern throughout the region as authorities warn the suspect remains armed and dangerous.
Incident Begins With Domestic Call, Escalates Into Gunfire
The chain of events began at approximately 12:49 a.m. on Saturday, July 26, when officers from the Scottsboro Police Department responded to a domestic violence call on Ruth Street. Upon arrival, McCarn fled the scene in a vehicle, leading police on a high-speed chase through parts of the city.
The pursuit came to a crashing halt at the intersection of U.S. Highway 72 and County Park Road, where McCarn’s vehicle was disabled. According to law enforcement, the suspect then exited the vehicle and opened fire, striking one of the pursuing officers.
McCarn then fled on foot, disappearing into the nearby area, sparking an immediate and large-scale manhunt.
Injured Officer in Stable Condition
The wounded officer was quickly rendered aid by fellow officers at the scene and rushed to Huntsville Hospital, where officials say he is receiving treatment. The officer’s condition has not been detailed publicly, but sources close to the department say he is expected to survive.
The officer’s identity has not yet been released.
Suspect Description and Safety Warning
The suspect, Daniel Victor McCarn, is described as a white male, approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighing 260 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes.
Law enforcement is urging all residents to remain indoors and report any suspicious activity immediately, emphasizing that McCarn is likely armed and should not be approached.
“We consider this suspect extremely dangerous,” said Scottsboro Police Chief Ron Latimer in a morning statement. “We are doing everything in our power to locate him and bring him into custody without further harm to the public or our officers.”
Multi-Agency Manhunt in Progress
As of midday Saturday, local, county, and state law enforcement agencies, including the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), and U.S. Marshals, have joined the search for McCarn.
Tactical teams, K-9 units, drones, and helicopters are being used to comb the wooded areas and neighborhoods near the crash and shooting scene.
Roadblocks and checkpoints have been established in surrounding areas, and police are actively reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses.
Community Urged to Stay Alert and Assist
Authorities are asking Scottsboro residents to secure their homes, check doorbell and surveillance footage, and avoid unnecessary travel near County Park Road, U.S. Hwy 72, and the Ruth Street area.
Anyone with information on McCarn’s whereabouts is asked to call Scottsboro Police or Jackson County Crime Stoppers at (256) 574-2610. Tips can also be submitted anonymously.
“We know our community supports our officers, and now is the time to help by staying vigilant,” said Jackson County Sheriff Chuck Phillips. “We won’t stop until this individual is off the streets.”
Developing Story
This incident has deeply shaken the Scottsboro community and raised serious concerns about officer safety and the dangers posed by domestic violence calls, which can escalate unpredictably.
Officials say a press conference may be held later this evening to provide updates on the officer’s condition and the progress of the manhunt.