Sheriff Frankie Gray warns of lengthy search for fugitive Craig Berry

A massive manhunt for a retired special forces soldier accused of shooting his wife entered its fifth day on Tuesday. Authorities continue to scour dense woodland in northern Tennessee for Craig Berry, who faces an attempted murder charge.

The Stewart County Sheriff’s Office has warned the public that the fugitive possesses "extensive training in survival tactics" and is familiar with the local terrain.

"He is an excellent swimmer and diver, and is in good physical shape," the sheriff’s office stated, adding that Berry is believed to be armed with extra ammunition.

Evidence from a trail camera captured on Friday shows Berry clad in camouflage clothing. While investigators do not believe he possesses a mobile phone, they have not ruled out the possibility that he is receiving outside assistance.

Stewart County Sheriff Frankie Grey acknowledged the difficulty of the operation, noting that finding the veteran could be a "lengthy process."

The search is now concentrated on a "very detailed" sweep of the eastern side of Kentucky Lake. This coordinated effort involves the U.S. Marshals Service, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and the Tennessee Highway Patrol.

The pursuit began in the early hours of May 1 after deputies responded to a domestic dispute where Berry's wife was shot.

While she was immediately hospitalised, her current medical condition remains unclear. Berry’s military background and elite training have made him a formidable target for capture.

Previously, Berry served with distinction in the special forces, though his transition to civilian life has now been marred by this violent incident.