Police: Man sought after escaping, injuring officer

Jacksonville Sheriff's Office booking photo of Gale Murray

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Police in Jacksonville are asking for the public's help in finding a man they said escaped from police custody and injured an officer.

Investigators said 36-year-old Gale Murray was detained by police on April 23 while officers were investigating a domestic violence allegation.

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Police said Murray was placed in the back seat of a patrol vehicle, and officers determined there was probable cause to arrest him.

When the officer opened the back door of the vehicle to handcuff Murray and advise him that he was under arrest, Murray immediately spun around in the seat and came at the officer, striking the officer in the chest area with both hands so forcefully that the officer was pushed backwards and slammed in the ground with enough force that the officer received several injuries, according to police.

Murray battered the officer and escaped from the vehicle, police said. They said he fled on foot and eluded capture.

Police said Murray has been seen in the area of Lane Avenue and Interstate 10 around hotels on the Westside.

Murray is wanted on charges of battery on a law enforcement officer, domestic battery, resisting an officer with violence, and escape.

He is described as a black man, 5 feet 5 inches tall and 160 pounds, with numerous tattoos on his neck and body.

Anyone who has any information about the location of Murray is asked to contact the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office at 904-630-0500 or email JSOCrimeTips@jaxsheriff.org. To remain anonymous and receive a possible reward up to $3,000, call Crime Stoppers at 866-845-TIPS.