ASPC CID Examines Officer-Involved Shooting Incident in Woodruff County

Arkansas Officer Involved Shooting: Suspect in Critical Condition

COTTON PLANT, Ark. – August 8, 2025 – An Arkansas State police inquiry is underway following an officer-involved shooting in Woodruff County that occurred in the early hours of this morning.The incident stems from an initial assault call and subsequent search for a suspect.

According to authorities, Woodruff County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) deputies responded to a reported assault on County Road 639 at approximately 11:45 p.m. on August 7th. The suspect, identified as 36-year-old Thomas Dixon of Woodruff County, fled into a wooded area before deputies arrived.

One victim was discovered at the scene and transported to Unity Health – White County Medical Center in Searcy, later transferred to a Little Rock hospital for continued treatment. Their condition remains undisclosed at this time.

around 2:00 a.m. on August 8th, a WCSO deputy returned to the residence to continue the search for Dixon. Authorities state that Dixon exited the home and began approaching the deputy. Despite repeated verbal commands to stop and get on the ground, Dixon allegedly continued to advance.The deputy then discharged their service weapon, striking Dixon.

Dixon was airlifted by Survival Flight to UAMS in Little Rock, where he is currently listed in critical condition. The Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division (CID) is handling the investigation, and a case file will be submitted to the woodruff County Prosecutor’s Office for review to determine the legality of the deputy’s actions.

What specific protocols does the ASPC CID follow to maintain objectivity during an officer-involved shooting investigation?

Incident Overview: Woodruff County Shooting

The Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division (ASPC CID) is currently conducting a thorough investigation into an officer-involved shooting that occurred in Woodruff County on August 8, 2025.Preliminary reports indicate the incident unfolded following a reported disturbance call near McCrory, Arkansas. Details remain limited as the investigation is ongoing, but authorities have confirmed that Woodruff County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the scene and encountered a suspect.

The ASPC CID is leading the investigation, a standard procedure in officer-involved shooting cases in Arkansas, ensuring impartiality and a comprehensive review of the events. This investigation will cover all aspects of the incident, from the initial dispatch call to the moments leading up to the discharge of a firearm.

Key Details Released by Authorities

While a full report is pending, the following information has been officially released regarding the Woodruff County shooting:

Date of Incident: August 8, 2025

Location: Near mccrory, woodruff County, Arkansas

Responding Agency: Woodruff County Sheriff’s Department

Investigating Agency: Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division (ASPC CID)

Suspect Status: The suspect’s condition is currently unknown, but updates will be provided as they become available.

Officer Status: all involved officers are accounted for. Their administrative status is pending the outcome of the investigation.

ASPC CID Investigative Process

the ASPC CID’s investigation will encompass several critical phases:

1. Scene Security & Documentation: Securing the shooting scene and meticulously documenting all evidence, including photographs, video footage (body-worn cameras, dashcams, surveillance), and physical evidence.
2. Witness Interviews: Conducting comprehensive interviews with all witnesses, including civilians, responding officers, and anyone with potential knowledge of the events.
3. Evidence Collection & Analysis: Gathering and analyzing all relevant evidence, including firearms, ammunition, and any other items pertinent to the investigation. This includes forensic analysis of collected materials.
4. Officer Statements: obtaining detailed statements from all officers involved, outlining their actions and perspectives during the incident.
5. Review of Policies & Procedures: Examining the Woodruff County Sheriff’s Department’s policies and procedures regarding the use of force to determine compliance.
6. Reconstruction of Events: Utilizing collected evidence and witness statements to reconstruct the sequence of events leading up to the shooting.

Arkansas State Police Protocol for officer-Involved Shootings

Arkansas law mandates that the ASPC CID investigate all officer-involved shootings to ensure transparency and accountability. This protocol is designed to:

Maintain Objectivity: Provide an independent investigation free from local influence.

Ensure Thoroughness: Conduct a comprehensive review of all aspects of the incident.

Promote Accountability: Determine weather the use of force was justified and in accordance with established policies and procedures.

Transparency: The ASPC CID will release findings to the public once the investigation is complete, subject to legal limitations.

Woodruff County Sheriff’s Department Response

The woodruff County Sheriff’s Department is fully cooperating with the ASPC CID investigation. Sheriff’s Department officials have expressed their commitment to transparency and accountability throughout the process. They have also stated their support for the officers involved and their families. The department has not released specific details about the incident, deferring all inquiries to the ASPC CID.

Potential Legal Ramifications & Next Steps

Following the completion of the ASPC CID investigation, the findings will be presented to the Woodruff County Prosecuting Attorney. The Prosecuting attorney will then determine whether any criminal charges are warranted against the officers involved.

Potential outcomes include:

Justified shooting: The prosecuting Attorney determines the use of force was justified and no charges are filed.

Criminal Charges: The Prosecuting Attorney files criminal charges against the officer(s) involved.

* Administrative Review: Regardless of criminal charges