Fort Smith, Ark. – The Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division is investigating an officer-involved shooting that resulted in the death of a suspect following a search operation tied to a prior homicide.
According to authorities, the incident began on March 23, 2026, when deputies with the Independence County Sheriff’s Office responded to a shooting at a residence on Brown Lane in the Bethesda community. Deputies located two individuals who had been shot. One victim was pronounced dead at the scene, while the second was transported to a hospital for treatment.
The suspect, identified as 48-year-old Christopher Lee Johnston of Jonesboro, fled the scene, prompting a multi-agency search involving the sheriff’s office, the Arkansas Department of Corrections K-9 team, the Batesville Police Department, and Arkansas State Police troopers.
On March 24, Johnston was located in a wooded area near the original crime scene. Officials said the Department of Corrections K-9 team encountered the suspect in a nearby field, where deadly force was used. Johnston was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Authorities confirmed that no officers were injured during the incident. Johnston’s body will be transported to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory to determine the exact cause and manner of death.
Once the investigation is complete, findings will be submitted to the Independence County Prosecuting Attorney, who will determine whether the use of force was consistent with state law.