A manhunt is underway in Missouri following the shooting of a Lee’s Summit police officer late Sunday night, prompting the Missouri State Highway Patrol to issue a Blue Alert early Monday morning. Authorities are urgently searching for 27-year-old Thomas Eugene Tolbert, who is considered armed and dangerous.
According to officials, the incident occurred around 11 p.m. Sunday when officers were dispatched to a reported domestic disturbance in the 3500 block of SW Hollywood Drive in Lee’s Summit. Upon arrival, police encountered Tolbert and a brief foot chase ensued.
During the pursuit, Tolbert allegedly drew a 10mm handgun and shot one of the responding officers, leaving the officer with serious injuries. The officer was rushed to an area hospital for treatment, and their current condition has not been disclosed.
Tolbert fled the scene in a vehicle that was later recovered by authorities in Grandview. Despite the recovery of the car, Tolbert remains at large. He is described as a Black male, approximately 6 feet 2 inches tall, weighing around 240 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair.
At the time of the incident, he was last seen wearing a black hooded top and black shorts. Officials have warned that Tolbert should be considered extremely dangerous, noting that he has a documented history of violent behavior, including previous incidents involving aggravated assault and shooting at law enforcement officers.
The urgency of the situation and the direct threat to public safety led to the issuing of the Blue Alert, which is activated when a law enforcement officer is seriously injured or killed and the suspect remains at large.
Law enforcement agencies across the region have mobilized to assist in the search for Tolbert. The Missouri State Highway Patrol, Lee’s Summit Police Department, and other neighboring agencies are working in coordination to track down the suspect.
Authorities are canvassing the areas surrounding Grandview and Lee’s Summit, reviewing surveillance footage, and following up on tips from the public.
“This individual is considered armed and dangerous, and we urge anyone who sees him or has information about his whereabouts to immediately contact 911,” said a spokesperson from the Lee’s Summit Police Department. “Please do not attempt to approach or engage him.”
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the community, especially among the law enforcement family in Lee’s Summit. The department has asked the public to keep the injured officer and their family in their thoughts during this difficult time.
As a precaution, increased police presence has been noted in surrounding neighborhoods, and residents have been asked to remain vigilant. The Blue Alert system was developed to rapidly disseminate information about suspects who have seriously injured or killed law enforcement officers, similar to how AMBER Alerts operate for missing children.
The goal is to enlist the public’s assistance in locating dangerous suspects as quickly as possible to prevent further harm. As of Monday afternoon, the suspect remains at large, and the search is ongoing.
Authorities continue to ask for the public’s help in spreading Tolbert’s description and any relevant updates. Those with information can call 911 or their local law enforcement agency. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through regional crime reporting services.
The investigation remains active, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. The safety of both the public and law enforcement officers remains the top priority as authorities work tirelessly to locate and apprehend Thomas Eugene Tolbert.
