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Police are searching for a Franklin man who allegedly tried to injure a law enforcement officer and fled police early Saturday morning, March 29, while being questioned in connection with a report of shots fired in the Main Street area of Franklin. A Franklin Police Department (FPD) news release provided a name and description and noted that the man is to be considered armed and dangerous.

The release stated that on March 29 at approximately 1:13 a.m., FPD officers were dispatched to the Main Street area of Franklin in reference to a report of shots being fired. A description of the vehicle and suspect were obtained by officers, and a search of the area was conducted, police said.

The vehicle was located, and the operator was identified as Jerry Williams, a Black male resident of the city of Franklin, the release stated, adding that Williams is approximately 5 feet, 5 inches in height, 140 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. 

“While questioning Mr. Williams about the incident, he fled the scene, striking a vehicle on Edwards Street,” FPD officials stated in the release. “Mr. Williams then fled the accident scene on foot.”

Police noted that members of the Virginia State Police Tactical Response Team and the Southampton County Sheriff’s Office assisted the FPD with a search for Williams in the 300 block of Edwards Street with negative results. 

The release stated that Williams is currently wanted on the following charges related to this incident: Attempted Malicious Bodily Injury to a Law Enforcement Officer, Possession of a Firearm After Being Convicted of a Felony, and Eluding Police. 

“Mr. Williams is to be considered armed and dangerous,” FPD officials stated.

The release concluded by stating that if anyone has information about this incident or other criminal activity within the City of Franklin, they are asked to call Franklin Police at 757-562-8575, Franklin Crime Solvers at 757-516-7100, or contact the FPD online at p3tips.com. Information that leads to an arrest can earn the caller a cash reward while remaining anonymous.