Jacksonville Police Reveal Details of Ambush Shooting; Suspect Added to Texas Top 10 Most Wanted

Bobby Michael Dennis, wanted by Jacksonville Police.

Jacksonville, Texas — Jacksonville Police held a press conference Tuesday afternoon revealing new details about the ambush shooting that critically injured a police officer and a K-9 unit on Sunday.

According to Chief Steven Markasky, around 4:40 p.m. on November 2, an officer patrolling the 1100 block of Churchill Street spotted Bobby Michael Dennis, 64, outside a residence. Dennis already had two outstanding warrants for obstruction and retaliation and had been wanted since early October.

When the officer approached and called to him by name, Dennis reportedly stepped behind the residence and returned with an AR-15 style rifle, opening fire.

“This was a targeted, intentional attack on a uniformed police officer for doing her job,” — Chief Markasky

The officer took cover behind her patrol unit, where her K-9 partner, Renzo, was secured inside the vehicle. Dennis continued firing, sending rounds through the patrol unit.

Officer shot twice while fleeing gunfire

While attempting to reach better cover, the officer was shot in the arm, causing her to fall. Dennis continued firing, striking her again as she was on the ground.

Despite her injuries, the officer applied her own tourniquet with her remaining functioning arm until other officers arrived, applying two additional tourniquets. She was airlifted to Tyler, underwent surgery, and is currently in stable condition.

Chief Markasky emphasized:

“She did nothing wrong. I thank God that my friend and coworker is alive today.”

Renzo, the K-9, was taken to a Tyler emergency veterinary clinic and is recovering.

Suspect considered armed and extremely dangerous

Dennis remains at large. He was last seen wearing all black clothing and may be driving a gray 2012 GMC Sierra, Texas plate TRW3919.

He is wanted on the following charges:

• Aggravated assault on a public servant

• Interference with a police service animal

• Two counts of obstruction or retaliation

The Texas Department of Public Safety has now added Dennis to the Texas Top 10 Most Wanted Fugitive list.Governor Abbott’s office is offering up to $10,000 for information leading to his arrest.

Dennis’ criminal history includes:

• Aggravated robbery

• Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon

• Theft of a firearm

• Unlawful carrying of a weapon

• Assault causing bodily injury to a family member

Do not attempt to approach him. Call 911 immediately if seen.

Tipsters can remain anonymous.

To be eligible for the reward:

Call Texas Crime Stoppers: 1-800-252-TIPS (8477)