Suspect Wanted for Attempted Murder Remains at Large

City of Athens

32-year-old David Rodriguez Cruz, who is wanted in connection with a stabbing incident that occurred on January 21, remains at large after fleeing on foot and leading officers on a vehicle chase.

On February 4th, 2026, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office was requested to assist in a vehicle pursuit coming into Polk County on U.S. Highway 64.

The pursuit was initiated in Cleveland (Bradley County), Tennessee and it continued onto State Highway 314 in Polk County.

The suspect vehicle was found abandoned in the City of Benton, in a new subdivision development on State Highway 314 (Parksville Rd.) near U.S. Highway 411, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO).

They say it was apparent that the suspect had fled on foot.

A nearby resident advised officers of the suspect’s direction of travel and a perimeter was set up by law enforcement.

K-9s and drones were deployed to the area to search for the suspect.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office also responded to possible sightings of the suspect, searched nearby properties at owner’s request, and followed up on tips of the possible suspect’s whereabouts, but the suspect is still at large.

The suspect is no longer believed to be in the area of Benton, but the Polk County Sheriff’s Office says the public stay vigilant.

They ask if you have any information in relation to this case, please contact your local law enforcement agency.