LA VERGNE, Tenn. — UPDATE: John Drake, Jr. has been added to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation's Most Wanted List.
Drake is wanted for two counts of attempted first-degree murder after shooting two La Vergne police officers Saturday, according to TBI. A reward of up to $2,500 is being offered for information.
If you have information, contact TBI at 1-800-TBI-FIND.
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Two La Vergne Police officers are in stable condition after a shooting that happened at a Dollar General on Saturday, according to WSMV.
Metro Nashville Police Chief John Drake identified the suspect who allegedly shot the officers as his “estranged son,” 38-year-old John C. Drake Jr.
Chief Drake released the following statement:
“I am shocked and deeply saddened to learn that my estranged son, with whom I have had very minimal contact over many years, is the suspect in this afternoon’s shooting of the two La Vergne police officers. My thoughts and prayers are with the two officers, who I understand are now in stable condition at Vanderbilt. Despite my efforts and guidance, in the early and teenage years, my son, John Drake Jr., now 38 years old, resorted to years of criminal activity and is a convicted felon. He has not been a part of my life for quite some time. He now needs to be found and held accountable for his actions today. I hope that anyone who sees him or has information about him will contact law enforcement immediately.”
La Vergne police told WSMV that the shooting happened before 2:30 p.m. Police Chief Christopher Moews said the officers were reporting to a stolen car when they confronted the suspect, WSMV said.
Drake allegedly pulled out a gun and shot the two officers.
Chief Moews told WSMV that one officer was shot in the shoulder, while the other was shot in the groin. WSMV reported both officers are in stable condition at Vanderbilt Medical Center.
Drake was last seen wearing a black shirt with red lettering, gray pants and black hat.
La Vergne Police are asking residents in the Stones River Road area near Lake Forest Drive to shelter in place. Anyone around the area must avoid it.
This story is developing.