A Muscatine police officer is recovering at home after being shot in the elbow during a traffic stop, while the suspect remains at large, according to Muscatine Police Chief, Anthony Kies.
Police identified the suspect as 59-year-old Mark Lee Jackson. Authorities say the shooting began near Benham Avenue before Jackson fled into the night.
Police say Jackson fired shots toward an area where bystanders and children were present. Muscatine Police Chief Anthony Kies said no children or civilians were injured.
“We are extremely blessed that no children or civilians were injured,” Kies said, during a recent press conference.
A large-scale search for Jackson is underway. Sixteen law enforcement agencies, along with K-9 teams and drones, have contributed more than 1,000 man-hours to the search. Authorities are focusing on a 120-acre area where Jackson was last seen.
Kies said the ongoing threat has changed how he is addressing the public.
“In the past, you’ve heard me say… these are isolated incidents and I can ensure all of your safety,” Kies said, according to KWQC. “At this time, I cannot do that.”
The injured officer has been released from the hospital and is expected to make a full recovery. Kies said the officer is stable and recovering at home.
Police are offering a cash reward for information that leads to Jackson’s whereabouts. Anyone with information about Jackson or his location is asked to contact authorities.
