Police: Man wanted for running over Fairburn officer arrested in Memphis

FAIRBURN, Ga. (FOX 5 Atlanta) - Fairburn Police said the man wanted for running over one of their officers has been caught in Tennessee.

Taurean McShan was arrested in Memphis, according to police. The department released the following statement regarding Thursday’s arrest:

“FPD and Chief Stoney Mathis would like to extend our thanks to the many law enforcement agencies in multiple states who helped us with this case. The US Marshals Service fugitive task force was instrumental in taking the suspect into custody. Many of our neighbor law enforcement agencies close to Fairburn provided incredible assistance on the night of the incident and our gratitude cannot be fully expressed. “

Sims was hurt in a parking lot on Senoia Road after being called in as back-up on a suspicious vehicle call. Police said once Officer Sims arrived, he approached a pick-up truck McShan was driving and started talking to the suspect. That's when Fairburn police said things escalated to a physical altercation where McShan ran over the officer's torso with the truck.

Sims was taken to Grady Memorial Hospital in serious condition. Officials said the officer suffered a fractured spine and lacerated liver. He underwent surgery Monday morning. Tuesday, police released a photo of the officer giving a thumbs up to the camera.

Earlier in the week, police sound the burgundy truck McShan was driving but didn’t find the suspect. Investigators said it was rented out of Memphis.

Police said McShan has a criminal record for previous drugs and weapons charges.

The Fairburn Police chief said Officer Sims continues to recover.