The Arkansas State Police said in a press release today that it is investigating the use of deadly force by state troopers last night at a residence off Arkansas Highway 9, south of Clinton in Van Buren County.
William Lloyd Jones, 49, had barricaded himself inside a residence at 361 Hillpoint Rd. and was holding a nine-year-old child at gunpoint. Local law enforcement authorities had gone to the home yesterday afternoon (Wednesday, Aug. 21) responding to a report of aggravated assault and later learned that Jones was wanted on a parole violation, the release said.
Sheriff’s deputies later contacted the Arkansas State Police requesting assistance from the department’s Crisis Response Team. Communications with Jones continued sporadically through the night. Shortly after 2 a.m. members of the Arkansas State Police SWAT team entered the home and rescued the child. While inside the home the SWAT team encountered Jones, who pointed a gun at the state troopers. A state trooper then fired on Jones who died at the scene.
The Arkansas State Crime Laboratory will analyze evidence and perform an autopsy on Jones’ to determine the manner and cause of death. Special Agents of the Criminal Investigation Division will also prepare an investigative file to present to the county prosecuting attorney who will decide if the shooting was consistent with Arkansas laws regarding the use of deadly force by a law enforcement officer.
Pursuant to Arkansas State Police Policy, the trooper who fired on Jones is presently on paid administrative leave.
Get up-to-date local and regional news along with the latest sports and weather every weekday morning by listening to Gary B. and Ozark Newsline on Arkansas 103.3 KWOZ. White River Now updates are also broadcast weekday mornings on 93 KZLE, Outlaw 106.5, and 99.5 Hits Now. If you have a news tip or event to promote, email White River Now at news@whiterivernow.com. Be sure to like and follow White River Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
