Stone County Deputy killed in line of duty

This story has been updated, 12 p.m., Jan. 3, 2024:

The Stone County Sheriff’s Department has released more information on yesterday’s killing of a sheriff’s deputy.

According to Sheriff Brandon Long, Stone County Deputy Justin Smith was fatally shot while attempting to serve suspect Clinton Hefton (pictured) with a misdemeanor terrorist threatening warrant at a home in the 300 block of Sawmill Road. The shooting occurred around 4 p.m.

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, Long said early evidence indicates Hefton resisted arrest and fired on Deputy Smith, who was found mortally wounded by officers responding 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 was charged with capital murder and is being held at the Cleburne County Detention Center with no bond.

In a release, the sheriff asked 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.

A procession will depart the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory on Natural Resources Drive in Little Rock at 1 p.m. today and proceed to Mountain View.

EARLIER:

More information is expected to be released later today regarding Tuesday’s shooting death of a Stone County Sheriff’s Deputy.

According to Arkansas State Police, a Stone County Sheriff’s Deputy was shot and killed while on duty at approximately 4:30 p.m. yesterday.

A suspect is in custody.

Stone County Sheriff Brandon Long asked the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division to conduct an investigation and for the Arkansas Department of Public Safety to field media inquiries.

No additional information will be released at this time, but a press conference will be scheduled in Mountain View as soon as possible.

Sheriff Long has asked that prayers be lifted for family, friends, and colleagues of the fallen officer.

“We ask that members of the media please give Sheriff Long and the Stone County community the time and space they need to process this devastating moment,” said ASP Colonel Mike Hagar. “Information will be released as it becomes available. Until then, let us all give the Stone County Sheriff’s Office our steadfast support.”