SandyMalonePikeville, KY – Police have launched a search for John Russell Hall in connection with the murder of Pikeville Police Officer Scotty Hamilton Tuesday night.
Even if you aren’t in the area, you can help share this on social media to help get his face in front of everyone so he has nowhere to hide.
Authorities said that Hall, 55, should be considered “armed and dangerous,” according to WSAZ.
UPDATE: Troopers have now captured Hall.
Hall was also wanted for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
The Rowan County Sheriff’s Office posted a picture and description of Hall on its Facebook page late Wednesday night.
Police said Hall is 5 feet 8 inches tall with green eyes.
He owned a 1990 Chevy Blazer, but its registration expired in 2005, so he may not be driving it.
Authorities believe Hall fatally shot Officer Hamilton on Tuesday night.
Police said that Officer Hamilton and Kentucky State Police (KSP) Trooper Matt Martin were following up on a report of a vehicle theft at approximately 11:30 p.m., when they arrived at a residence in the Hurricane Creek area, WDRB reported.
The pair spoke with individuals in a vehicle near the residence, then separated and began looking for an individual on foot, according to the Lexington Herald Leader.
Officer Hamilton began following what appeared to be fresh tracks in the snow, which led him to the back of a residence, WDRB reported.
As he peered around the corner of the home, Officer Hamilton was shot at least once in the head.
According to WSAZ, as many as three gunshots were heard.
Trooper Martin rushed to the fallen hero’s aid, but Officer Hamilton was pronounced dead at the scene.
Four individuals in the area were arrested on unrelated charges, but Officer Hamilton’s murderer escaped, KSP spokesman William Petry told the Lexington Herald Leader.
Please share this on social media, even if you aren’t in the area. It really makes a difference so we can capture him before he kills again.