ASP investigating trooper-involved shooting that led to suspect’s death in Jackson County

NEWPORT, Ark. (KTVE/KARD) — On Friday, October 11, 2024, around 9:41 a.m., the Arkansas State Police (ASP) Criminal Investigation Division (CID) investigated an officer-involved shooting happening at the 73-mile marker on U.S. Highway 67 northbound.

ASP troopers started a pursuit to stop the vehicle, which was driven aggressively toward a marked ASP unit at a speed of 120 mph on U.S. 67 South between Newport and Bradford in Jackson County.

Troopers were able to stop the suspect near the 80-mile marker on U.S. 67 South, where a standoff happened. JCSO, closed part of the highway while ASP crisis negotiators worked to end the situation peacefully with the suspect.

Furthermore, the suspect refused orders to exit the vehicle and threatened officers while telling them he had a weapon. Approximately 30 minutes later, the suspect fled the scene, traveling south in the northbound land against oncoming traffic going more than 100 mph.

Troopers then employed force to stop the suspect, firing at the driver where there was a gap in traffic. This led to the suspect vehicle running off the roadway into the ditch, catching fire.

The suspect died on the scene, and the body was taken to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory, while troopers sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

“We are thanking God this evening that no innocent civilians were injured or killed today during this incident.” “We also thank motorists in the area for being alert in order to avoid what undoubtedly would have been deadly collisions. This suspect’s actions were reckless and heartless, putting an untold number of lives at risk.”

Colonel Mike Hagar

According to ASP, CID agents will begin an investigative file to submit to the Jackson County Prosecuting Attorney, who will then determine whether deadly force was consistent with Arkansas laws.

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