The Bald Knob School Board has fired a high school biology and science teacher accused of fatally shooting his brother in Ida last month.
The board voted unanimously Monday night to terminate the contract of Dustin Lee Cannon, 42, who had been on administrative leave following the Oct. 20 death of his brother, Austin Cannon. Superintendent Jed Davis recommended the dismissal after a brief executive session.
Board President Paul Johnston said the teacher was notified of the hearing but, being incarcerated, did not attend. Johnston said the board found “just and reasonable cause” for termination.
Cannon, hired by the district in 2024, remains held in the Cleburne County Detention Center on a first-degree murder charge with bond set at $1 million.
Authorities say Cannon called 911 after shooting his brother outside his home. Investigators reported Cannon admitted firing a .40-caliber handgun “until it was empty” after an argument. He allegedly told deputies he acted to protect his wife and daughter from threats.
The district previously said Cannon had self-reported the incident and was placed on unpaid leave.
Dustin Lee Cannon
Have a news tip or event to promote? Email White River Now at news@whiterivernow.com. Be sure to like and follow us on Facebook and Twitter. And don’t forget to download the White River Now mobile app from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
Get up-to-date local and regional news/weather from the First Community Bank Newsroom on Arkansas 103.3 KWOZ every weekday morning and afternoon. White River Now updates are also aired on weekday mornings on
93 KZLE, Outlaw 106.5, and Your FM 99.5. Catch CBS News around the top of every hour on 1340 KBTA.
