Fort Smith, Ark. – The Fort Smith Police Department honored Officer Kyle Newman with the Department’s Medal of Valor and Purple Heart on June 22, marking his first return to the department since he was critically injured in a line-of-duty shooting on May 17.
Chief Baker, along with Colonel Mike Hagar, Director of the Arkansas State Police, Lt. Col. Jason Aaron of the Arkansas State Police, Cindy Murphy, Director of Communications at the Arkansas Department of Public Safety, and members of the Fort Smith Police Department, presented Newman with the awards in person.
Newman sustained a catastrophic gunshot injury while responding to the incident on May 17. Despite being seriously wounded, Newman returned fire and stopped the threat. The suspect was later killed by police during a confrontation on I-540 before he could harm anyone else.
The department said Newman’s actions under extreme circumstances likely saved the lives of others and praised his determination throughout his recovery.
Fort Smith Police also expressed gratitude for Newman’s family, fellow officers, medical personnel, and community members who supported him throughout the difficult weeks following the shooting.
The department described Newman’s return as a significant moment and said the day was a reminder of the support surrounding the officer and his recovery.