Fort Smith Man Jerry Beane, 39, Fatally Shot in Early Morning Homicide; Suspect Hunter Harrell Arrested
In the early hours of Friday, July 18, 2025, a Fort Smith neighborhood was rocked by gunfire when 39-year-old Jerry Beane was fatally shot. His life ended abruptly during what should have been a peaceful dawn—leaving the community reeling in grief.
🚨 Incident Details & Law Enforcement Response
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Discovery & Investigation
Police were called to a residence on North 38th Street following reports of shots fired. Upon arrival, officers found Jerry suffering from gunshot wounds; he was pronounced deceased at the scene. The case has been classified as a homicide and remains under investigation by the Fort Smith Police Department . -
Suspect Arrested
Law enforcement swiftly identified and arrested 25-year-old Hunter Harrell, taking him into custody the same day and charging him with first-degree murder. He is currently detained at the Sebastian County Jail awaiting further proceedings
❤️ Who Was Jerry Beane?
While not widely known outside his neighborhood, Jerry left a lasting impression on those around him:
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Described by neighbors as a friendly, warm presence, he often lent a smile or helping hand during morning routines.
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A local fixture—he was seen walking his dog or greeting fellow community members near his North 38th Street home.
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His death has deeply shaken this tight-knit area, a quiet section of Fort Smith usually untouched by violence.
🧭 Community Impact & Call for Peace
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Neighborhood Shock
News of the shooting spread quickly, prompting neighbors to close windows in anguish, share candle-lit vigils, and check on one another in collective mourning. -
Police Urge Information
Fort Smith PD is actively seeking any witnesses, surveillance footage, or leads related to the case. Community support is seen as vital in ensuring justice -
Promoting Unity
Local leaders and residents have rallied for calm and compassion. In the face of tragedy, they call on one another to stand together and resist drifting into fear or recrimination.
📋 Case Summary at a Glance
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Victim | Jerry Beane, 39 |
| Date & Time | July 18, 2025, early morning |
| Location | North 38th Street, Fort Smith |
| Incident | Fatal shooting; homicide investigation |
| Suspect | Hunter Harrell, 25 — arrested, charged with first-degree murder |
| Current Status | Active investigation; community urged to assist |
🌟 Honoring Jerry’s Memory
Though his life wasn’t lived in the spotlight, Jerry’s death leaves behind sorrow and reflection. In remembering him, neighbors speak of:
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His gentle presence—the kind of person you see and feel uplifted by.
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An ordinary life suddenly turned devastating, sparking grief in an otherwise peaceful place.
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A shared desire for healing—through community prayers, small memorials, and neighborly outreach.
🙏 Final Thoughts & Path Forward
The shooting death of Jerry Beane is a painful reminder that violence can shatter lives unexpectedly—even in the calmest corners of our cities. As Fort Smith grapples with loss and seeks clarity, his story resonates as a call for unity, compassion, and action.
If you witnessed the incident or have relevant information, please contact Fort Smith Police. Meanwhile, neighbors and friends continue to support each other—sharing memories, providing comfort, and keeping Jerry’s spirit alive in their hearts.