SCOTTSBORO, Ala. — Daniel McCarn, now in custody at the Jackson County Jail, has been charged with attempted murder after allegedly shooting and injuring a Scottsboro police officer during a domestic disturbance that escalated into a 20-hour manhunt.
According to the Scottsboro Police Department, the incident began around 1 a.m. Saturday on Ruth Street, when officers responded to a domestic call involving McCarn. Upon arrival, McCarn fled the scene, leading officers on a short vehicle chase. After crashing his car nearby, McCarn allegedly opened fire, striking one officer. The injured officer’s identity has not yet been released but is expected to recover.
A massive manhunt ensued throughout the day Saturday, with officers instructing residents to stay indoors for their safety. Cynthia Smith, a longtime Scottsboro resident and wife of the city’s former police chief, said police came to her door at 5 a.m. and advised her to lock up. “There were officers walking the street… but I felt safe because of their presence,” she said.
The search came to an end just before 10 p.m. when a drone equipped with thermal imaging located McCarn hiding near railroad tracks by Old Larkinsville Road. Officers surrounded and apprehended him without further incident. Video released by police shows McCarn on the ground, surrounded by armed officers.
Resident Beau Rogers recorded video of police driving by with McCarn in custody. “Our guy’s in custody, so y’all good around here,” an officer is heard saying.
McCarn has not been given bond, and court records show no prior criminal history in Alabama, aside from a few minor traffic violations.
His first court appearance is expected in the coming days, and WAFF 48 will continue to monitor developments.
