Date: June 21, 2024
Location: Fordyce, Arkansas
Incident Time: Approximately 11:30 a.m.
Incident Summary
A tragic shooting outside the Mad Butcher grocery store in Fordyce, Arkansas, left three people dead and at least ten others wounded, including two law enforcement officers. The suspect, identified as Travis Eugene Posey, 44, of New Edinburg, Arkansas, is in custody and faces multiple charges, including three counts of capital murder.
Details of the Incident
- Perpetrator: Travis Eugene Posey
- Charges: Three counts of capital murder with additional charges pending
- Victims:
- Three fatalities
- At least ten wounded (including two law enforcement officers with non-life-threatening injuries)
- Law Enforcement Response: The suspect exchanged gunfire with state police before being apprehended.
Eyewitness Accounts
- Holt Builder’s Supply Employee: Heard “several rounds” and observed victims being medevacked from the scene.
- David Rodriguez: Initially mistook the gunfire for fireworks and witnessed people fleeing the store, with one individual lying on the ground.
- Odis Allen: A long-time resident of Fordyce, expressed shock and fear for his family.
Official Statements
- Arkansas State Police: Confirmed the incident details and suspect’s charges.
- Mike Hagar (Arkansas State Police Secretary of Public Safety and Director): Acknowledged the severity of the situation, expressing heartbreak and solidarity with the victims and community.
- Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders: Praised the quick and heroic response of law enforcement and first responders, extended prayers to the victims and community.
- White House: President briefed on the incident and will receive ongoing updates.
Community Impact
- Local Pastor Roderick Rogers: Received calls from community members near the shooting, coordinated with local authorities, and urged for continued prayers and unity.
- Anonymous Witness to FOX 16: Described the shooter as having “destroyed a community” and called for spreading love instead of hate.
Additional Information
- Law Enforcement Action: Operation to secure the scene involved multiple agencies.
- Public Safety Measures: The community remains on high alert, with increased police presence and ongoing investigations.
