Kentucky Suspect Fires at Paducah Police Cruiser During High-Speed Chase Before Crashing Into Home and Dying, Investigators Say

PADUCAH, KENTUCKY — A Paducah Police Department cruiser was struck by gunfire during a vehicle pursuit involving the McCracken County Sheriff’s Office on Friday evening, according to police.

The incident occurred around 8 p.m. near the city limits on Lone Oak Road, as officers tried to assist in stopping a fleeing suspect identified as Robert Wray.

Gunfire Erupts During Police Stop Attempt

Police said Sgt. Dylan Cook of the Paducah Police Department positioned his marked patrol vehicle with emergency lights on near the entrance to the former Kmart parking lot in an effort to deploy stop sticks.

As the suspect’s vehicle passed, Wray allegedly fired a handgun toward the officer’s car, striking the rear passenger window — just a few feet from where Sgt. Cook was standing.

Fortunately, no officers were injured in the exchange, and the bullet did not penetrate the vehicle’s cabin.

Suspect Identified in Related Pursuit

Authorities confirmed the gunfire occurred as part of the broader McCracken County pursuit that began earlier Friday night.
The suspect, 26-year-old Robert Wray of Kevil, reportedly fled from a Marshall County Sheriff’s deputy, firing at law enforcement during the chase before crashing into a home in Lone Oak.

He was later transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Investigation Led by Kentucky State Police

The Kentucky State Police (KSP) have taken over the investigation into both the officer-involved shooting and the pursuit.

The Paducah Police Department stated that it is fully cooperating with state investigators and commended Sgt. Cook for his quick response and restraint under fire.

“The round came just feet away from where Sgt. Cook was standing,” officials said. “We are thankful this incident did not result in injury or loss of life.”

Further updates are expected as KSP continues to review forensic evidence and body camera footage related to the pursuit.

Have you witnessed recent law enforcement activity in the area? Share your thoughts and community updates with us at ChicagoMusicGuide.com.