A search is underway for a man accused of stabbing an off-duty Atlanta police officer following a hit-and-run incident in DeKalb County, Georgia. The incident unfolded on Saturday evening when a Dodge Charger collided with a Chevy Silverado on Interstate 20 Eastbound near Panola Road. The Charger's driver fled the scene, prompting the Silverado's driver, an off-duty Atlanta police officer, to pursue the vehicle into Rockdale County in an attempt to obtain the license plate number.

The two vehicles eventually stopped in a parking lot, where a verbal altercation escalated into a physical confrontation. The suspect, identified as 37-year-old Justin Perry Hurst, allegedly stabbed the officer multiple times before fleeing. Hurst is currently at large and considered armed and dangerous. His last known vehicle is a white 2019 Volkswagen Passat with Georgia license plate CWC3082. He is believed to have connections to the Alpharetta area.

The injured officer was transported to Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, where he was treated and later released. Authorities are urging anyone with information about Hurst's whereabouts to contact local law enforcement. A reward of up to $2,000 is being offered for information leading to his arrest.

The Atlanta Police Department expressed solidarity with the Rockdale County Sheriff's Office, who are leading the investigation, and reiterated the call for public assistance in apprehending the suspect.