Suspect Arrested for Random Arkansas Grocery Store Shooting, Four Killed
Four people were killed and 14 others wounded when 44-year-old Travis Eugene Posey opened fire at the Mad Butcher grocery store in Fordyce, Arkansas, on the morning of June 21, 2024.
The tragic incident, which appears to be a random act of violence, has shocked the small community of Fordyce, located about 70 miles south of Little Rock. Suspect Travis Eugene Posey, who exchanged gunfire with law enforcement, is expected to face multiple charges, including four counts of capital murder. As the investigation continues, the Mad Butcher grocery store remains closed, and the town grapples with the aftermath of the deadly shooting.
This shooting began at approximately 11:30 a.m. local time when Posey, armed with a long gun, opened fire in the parking lot before entering the store. Video footage verified by NBC News shows a man firing the weapon, sending shoppers and employees into panic.
Among the four people killed were Callie Weems, aged 23; Roy Sturgis, 50; Shirley Taylor, 62; and Ellen Shrum, 81. Their deaths have left the community heartbroken as they remember the victims whose lives were abruptly cut short.
In addition to the fatalities, 14 individuals were wounded. Of those injured, 11 were civilians and two were law enforcement officers. The two officers sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Posey himself was also injured but is recovering from non-life-threatening wounds after being shot during an exchange of gunfire with the police.
Witnesses described the chaos at the scene, with some initially mistaking the gunfire for fireworks. Many recounted hearing the shots ring out and seeing people fall or take cover. Efforts to locate safe spots within the store ensued, with some like Katrina Doherty and her children resorting to hiding in a freezer.
Even as the wounded continue to receive medical attention, the community and the authorities are struggling to understand the motive behind this seemingly senseless act. Law enforcement officials indicate that the motive remains unclear, and there is currently no indication that the attack targeted anyone specifically.
Posey was swiftly apprehended by law enforcement on Friday evening after receiving medical treatment for his injuries. He is now being held at the Ouachita County Detention Center. Officials confirmed that Posey will likely face multiple charges, including four counts of capital murder, as more charges are pending.
The town of Fordyce, which has a small population, is grappling with the impact of this tragedy. Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders issued a statement thanking law enforcement and first responders for their 'heroic actions' during the incident.
In the meantime, the Mad Butcher grocery store remains closed as investigators work to piece together the events leading up to and during the attack. The crime scene is under thorough examination to ensure all evidence is collected and analyzed.
Among the injured civilians, some remain hospitalized, with at least one woman in critical condition. The community has rallied around the victims, offering support and prayers for their recovery.
As Fordyce navigates this painful chapter, residents are coming together to support each other. Vigils and memorials are being organized to honor the lives lost, and efforts are being made to provide assistance to the families affected by the tragic event.
While the sense of shock lingers, local authorities pledge to keep the community informed as more details emerge. In the meantime, the focus remains on supporting the victims, both in their recovery and in dealing with the emotional trauma caused by the incident.
The story continues to develop as law enforcement delves deeper into the investigation. Up-to-date information and ongoing coverage can be expected as the community seeks answers and justice for the victims of this heartbreaking event.