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Rural Independence County shooting incident under investigation by authorities

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According to a press release from the Independence County Sheriff’s Office, officers responded to a call on Friday about the Thida Post Office being open, but no one was around.

Upon arrival, officers discovered the building was unattended, but the postmaster’s vehicle was at the building.

Due to a recent history between the postmaster, Teresa Melvard, and her husband,  Jerry Melvard, a phone number was obtained and a phone ping was started.

The location determined by the phone ping led officers to an abandoned house where they made contact with Jerry Melvard. Melvard had requested an ambulance for his wife due to a gunshot injury.

Chief Deputy Aaron Moody was negotiating with Jerry to get him to surrender and to release Teresa.

During negotiations, Jerry requested to speak with Sheriff Shawn Stephens.

The Sheriff entered the residence to speak with Jerry and get Teresa released.

A short time later, Teresa was escorted out of the home and transported to a hospital for treatment.

Jerry was then taken into custody and transported to the Independence County Detention Facility. He remains in custody awaiting formal charges.

The Independence County Sheriff’s Office is working in conjunction with the Federal Postal Inspectors and the Arkansas State Police regarding this incident.


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