On February 7, 2025, at approximately 2:10 p.m., officers with the Marianna Police Department observed wanted fugitive Donald Reed Sparks, 29, at a residence on Milton Avenue. As officers approached, Sparks fled into a nearby wooded area, prompting an immediate foot pursuit.
Despite an extensive search, officers were initially unable to locate Sparks. Assistance was requested from K9 teams from Jackson Correctional Institution and Apalachee Correctional Institution, who quickly developed a track. As the teams closed in, Sparks continued to evade capture, eventually crossing Penn Avenue, where Marianna Police Department investigators spotted and pursued him.
Sparks was ultimately apprehended just off Penn Avenue by MPD officers. He was wanted on multiple charges, including:
• Failure to Appear – Shooting Into an Occupied Vehicle
• Fleeing or Attempting to Elude
• Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Chief Hayes Baggett extends his sincere gratitude to the K9 teams from Jackson and Apalachee Correctional Institutions for their swift response and invaluable assistance in apprehending this dangerous fugitive.
The Marianna Police Department reminds the community: “If You See Something, Say Something.” Report any suspicious people or activity immediately to your local law enforcement agency so it can be properly investigated. Community awareness and cooperation play a critical role in keeping our neighborhoods safe.
For further information, please contact the Marianna Police Department at 850-526-3125
