(KTTS News) — Capital murder charges have been filed against a man who shot and killed a Stone County, Arkansas sheriff’s deputy.
Clinton Hefton is charged with shooting Deputy Justin Smith.
Authorities believe Deputy Smith was shot when he tried to arrest Hefton at his home in a misdemeanor warrant for making a terroristic threat.
Hefton was arrested after a standoff.
Press Release
On Tuesday, January 2nd, 2024, at approximately 4:00 PM, Stone County Deputy Justin Smith was fatally shot while attempting to serve suspect Clinton Hefton with a misdemeanor Terroristic Threatening warrant at a home in the 300 block of Sawmill Road.
The Criminal Investigation Division of the Arkansas State Police (ASP) is investigating the incident and the specific circumstances involving the shooting.
While the investigation is in its preliminary stage, early evidence indicates that Hefton resisted arrest and fired on Deputy Smith, who was found mortally wounded by officers who responded to reports of shots fired.
Officers responding to the home, located about 5 miles north of Mountain View, took Hefton into custody after a brief standoff.
Clinton Hefton, 52 of Mountain View Arkansas was charged with Capital Murder and is being held at the Cleburne County Detention Center with no bond.
At this time, we ask that everyone pray for Deputy Smith’s family and all of his law enforcement brothers and sisters. Details of Deputy Smith’s memorial arrangements will be released upon completion.
The public is invited to visit a temporary patrol car tribute to Deputy Smith in the Mountain View courthouse square where flowers can be placed.
