De’Andre Gooden Fatally Shot at Dupree Park in Jacksonville, Arkansas; Community Mourns and Police Seek Answers
Late Thursday afternoon, Jacksonville police received a distressing call. At approximately 6:32 p.m., officers rushed to Dupree Park, near the playground at 1700 South Redmond Road, following reports of gunfire. There, they found De’Andre Gooden, a resident of Jacksonville, critically wounded. He was pronounced deceased at the scene—a heartbreaking end to what should have been an evening of laughter and community at the park
The Incident
-
JPD has confirmed the shooting as a homicide, with active efforts underway to locate and apprehend the suspect.
-
The incident occurred near the playground area of Dupree Park, a place where families and neighbors often gather, further amplifying the community’s shock and grief.
-
Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation; no suspect descriptions or possible motives have been disclosed yet.
Remembering De’Andre
Although specific personal details about De’Andre Gooden have not been publicly released, his death has reverberated throughout Jacksonville. He was known in the community as someone present at public spaces and parks—possibly a friend, an uncle, a familiar face to children and neighbors.
Local residents describe Dupree Park as a hub of activity—a place where families spend summer evenings. The stark transformation of a joyful space into a scene of tragedy has deeply unsettled the community.
Community Reaction & Call for Information
-
Jacksonville residents have expressed profound shock, many stating that a shooting in a place perceived as “safe” feels like a betrayal of trust.
-
Police are urgently asking anyone who was in or near the park on Thursday evening—or who has home surveillance or dashcam footage—to come forward and contact authorities
-
As investigations continue, the Jacksonville Police Department has appealed for any eyewitness accounts or tips that may lead to the suspect’s identification and capture.
What Comes Next
| Next Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| Ongoing Investigation | Detectives are reviewing park surveillance, witness statements and forensic evidence. |
| Public Alerts | Law enforcement plans to share updates, especially if suspect descriptions emerge. |
| Community Support | Outreach efforts include vigils, grief counseling, and neighborhood watch initiatives to restore a sense of safety. |
🕯️ In Memoriam
While details of De’Andre Gooden’s life beyond this tragedy remain private, the park shooting has cast a dark shadow over a space meant for joy and connection. His death is a painful reminder that violence can touch any corner of our communities at any time.
The Jacksonville community mourns the loss of a neighbor, a friend, and a presence that once filled their park with life. In this time of sorrow, residents stand together, hopeful that justice will be served and that peace can eventually return to Dupree Park.
May De’Andre rest in peace. His memory demands nothing less than vigilance from law enforcement, and collective resolve from us all.