Seth Altman on the Run After Allegedly Shooting Texas Police Chief
On October 3, 2024, Seth Altman, a 33-year-old man, became the subject of a statewide manhunt after allegedly shooting Rex Plant, the police chief of Memphis, Texas. The incident occurred when officers attempted to serve an arrest warrant on Altman for burglary. Altman opened fire and fled the scene. Plant is currently in stable condition. A Blue Alert was issued for Altman, who is considered armed and dangerous, with law enforcement urging the public to remain vigilant.
Seth Altman on the Run After Texas Police Chief Shooting
A dramatic and dangerous situation unfolded in Memphis, Texas, on October 3, 2024, as Seth Altman, a 33-year-old man, became the focal point of a statewide manhunt. Altman, already under suspicion for burglary, allegedly shot the Memphis police chief, Rex Plant, during an attempt by law enforcement to serve him an arrest warrant. This incident, which has triggered a “Blue Alert” across Texas, places Altman as a high-priority suspect, and he is considered armed and dangerous. The incident shocked the small community and has raised concerns for law enforcement officials across the state.
The Incident Unfolds
At approximately 10:50 p.m., police officers, led by Chief Rex Plant, attempted to apprehend Altman on burglary charges. As they approached to serve the warrant, Altman reportedly resisted arrest by opening fire, striking Plant multiple times. Despite the chaotic scene, Altman managed to flee, escaping into the night. The shooting occurred on the outskirts of Memphis, Texas, a rural area where police resources can be more limited, exacerbating the difficulty of quickly tracking down Altman.
Chief Plant was immediately rushed to a hospital in Lubbock, where he remains in stable condition. Despite the serious nature of his injuries, he is expected to make a full recovery, according to local officials. The Hall County Sheriff’s Office, along with other law enforcement agencies, has now shifted its focus to finding and apprehending Altman before the situation escalates further.
Blue Alert Issued
In the wake of the incident, Texas law enforcement issued a “Blue Alert” statewide. A Blue Alert is a public notification system used to inform citizens when a suspect is on the run after seriously injuring or killing a law enforcement officer. It is designed to enlist the public’s help in locating the suspect while also warning them to stay vigilant.
Seth Altman fits this profile, as he is accused of attempting to kill a police officer. Authorities describe Altman as 6 feet 2 inches tall, weighing approximately 220 pounds, and last seen wearing a blue T-shirt and blue jeans. He is known to be armed and dangerous, and law enforcement has cautioned residents in the area to avoid approaching him if spotted. Instead, they should immediately contact local authorities or call 911 with any relevant information.
Criminal History and Previous Encounters
Altman was already a suspect in a burglary case, which is what led to the officers seeking him out in the first place. His criminal record, though not widely publicized, has led local officials to describe him as a “dangerous and unpredictable” individual. The escalation from burglary charges to the attempted murder of a peace officer has shocked many, particularly in the tight-knit community of Memphis, Texas, where violent crime is rare.
According to reports, Altman has had run-ins with law enforcement before, though none as severe as the current allegations. Some residents have come forward describing him as a troubled individual, prone to violent outbursts, while others expressed surprise, saying they did not expect such drastic behavior from him.
Ongoing Search and Public Safety Concerns
The search for Seth Altman is ongoing, with law enforcement agencies from across the state joining forces to locate him. Helicopters, canine units, and state troopers have been dispatched to track down any signs of the fugitive. However, with no clear sightings since the night of the incident, Altman remains at large.
Public safety concerns are at an all-time high, as the community grapples with the fact that a dangerous individual is still on the loose. Schools in the region have implemented lockdown protocols as a precaution, and some residents are opting to stay indoors until the situation is resolved. Police have urged the public to be aware of their surroundings and report anything suspicious, particularly in rural areas where Altman may attempt to hide.
While the investigation continues, authorities are appealing for any information that could lead to Altman’s arrest. The Blue Alert remains active, and updates are expected as law enforcement tracks leads. Altman faces severe charges, including attempted capital murder, which could lead to life imprisonment if convicted.
Conclusion
The latest incident involving Seth Altman has shaken the community of Memphis, Texas, and highlighted the dangers law enforcement officers face while carrying out their duties. As the manhunt intensifies, the focus remains on bringing Altman to justice while ensuring the safety of both law enforcement and the general public. With a Blue Alert still in effect, residents are urged to stay cautious and report any information that could assist in his capture. The resolution of this case will likely have long-lasting effects on the community and underscore the importance of supporting those who protect and serve.