Little Rock Shooting: Chaos Erupts in River Market District

Shots Echo Through little Rock’s River Market; Juveniles Scattter

LITTLE ROCK – A late-night incident at Little Rock’s popular River Market district saw a volley of shots fired Saturday, sending a crowd of predominantly young people fleeing for safety. While no injuries were reported as of Monday morning, the event has raised concerns about public safety in the area, notably following curfew.

Little Rock police spokesman Mark Edwards confirmed that the shots were heard late Saturday night. He indicated that the group dispersed rapidly, with many appearing to be juveniles. Details regarding the precise time of the shooting and further specifics were expected to be released later Monday.

A video circulating on social media, attributed to Little Rock Hood News, appears to capture the chaotic moments. It shows a meaningful number of individuals near the intersection of Markham and Main streets, adjacent to the Statehouse Convention Center. Although the video lacks audio, it clearly depicts people scattering in unison, running west on Markham Street and south on Main Street. Simultaneously, an SUV that had been proceeding slowly eastward on Markham Street is seen rapidly reversing westward.

This incident underscores a persistent challenge for urban centers: ensuring safety and order, especially for younger populations gathering in public spaces. As authorities investigate the precise circumstances, the event serves as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and proactive measures to prevent such disruptions. The presence of juveniles at the River Market after curfew also brings into focus ongoing discussions about youth engagement and the role of public spaces in fostering positive activities. While this is a developing story,the focus remains on identifying those involved and reinforcing safety protocols to protect all visitors to this vibrant part of the city.

What public transportation services have been affected by the River Market District lockdown?

Timeline of Events – July 14, 2025

A shooting in Little Rock’s River Market District on the evening of July 14, 2025, has left the community reeling. Initial reports began surfacing around 17:50 CDT, indicating multiple victims near the intersection of President Clinton Avenue and Riverfront Drive. Law enforcement, including the Little Rock Police Department (LRPD) and state troopers, responded immediately, establishing a perimeter and initiating an active shooter investigation.

17:50 CDT: Frist reports of gunfire received. Witnesses describe a chaotic scene with people fleeing the area.

17:55 CDT: LRPD confirms an active shooting situation and urges the public to avoid the River market District.

18:15 CDT: Emergency Medical Services (EMS) begin transporting victims to local hospitals – University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) and St. Vincent Infirmary.

18:30 CDT: Police announce one suspect is in custody. Details regarding the suspect’s identity are currently being withheld pending further investigation.

19:00 CDT: LRPD provides an updated statement confirming multiple injuries and at least two fatalities.

Confirmed Victims and Hospital Updates

As of 19:30 CDT,authorities have confirmed the following:

Fatalities: Two individuals have been pronounced dead at UAMS. Identities are pending notification of next of kin.

Injured: At least five individuals sustained gunshot wounds. Their conditions range from stable to critical. UAMS reports treating three patients, while St.Vincent Infirmary is treating two.

Victim Demographics: Initial reports suggest the victims are a diverse group, ranging in age from early 20s to late 40s. Further details will be released as the investigation progresses.

Witness Accounts and Initial Reports

Eyewitness accounts paint a picture of sudden and unexpected violence. Many were enjoying the evening in the River market District, a popular entertainment and dining area, when the shooting began.

“It was just… pandemonium,” stated Sarah Miller, a local resident who was dining at a nearby restaurant. “People were screaming and running in all directions. I saw someone fall, and then everyone just scattered.”

Another witness, identified as David Chen, reported hearing multiple shots fired in swift succession. “I thought it was fireworks at first, but then I realized what was happening. It was terrifying.”

Social media is flooded with videos and images from the scene,showing a heavy police presence and ambulances transporting the injured.#LittleRockShooting and #RiverMarketDistrict are trending on Twitter.

Suspect Data and Motive

The suspect, now in police custody, has been identified as 28-year-old Marcus Bell of Little Rock. Details regarding a potential motive are still under investigation. LRPD spokesperson, Officer Denise Harris, stated in a press conference that the suspect acted alone and there is no ongoing threat to public safety.

Prior Record: Preliminary background checks reveal Bell has a history of minor offenses, including disorderly conduct and public intoxication.

weapon Used: Authorities have recovered a 9mm handgun believed to be the weapon used in the shooting. The firearm is being processed for forensic analysis.

Possible motive (Preliminary): While the investigation is ongoing, early reports suggest a possible dispute with another individual may have triggered the shooting.

River Market District Lockdown and Safety Measures

The River Market District remains on lockdown as law enforcement continues to secure the scene and gather evidence. All businesses in the area have been temporarily closed.

Road Closures: President Clinton Avenue, Riverfront Drive, and surrounding streets are closed to traffic. Motorists are advised to avoid the area.

Public Transportation: The River Market Streetcar service has been suspended until further notice.

Increased Police Presence: LRPD has increased patrols throughout the city, especially in high-traffic areas, to reassure the public and prevent further incidents.

Mental Health resources: the City of Little Rock has activated its crisis hotline to provide support to those affected by the shooting. the number is 501-562-3100.

Community Response and Support

The Little Rock community has rallied in response to the tragedy. Local organizations are coordinating efforts to provide support to victims and their families.

Red Cross Assistance: The American Red Cross has deployed volunteers to provide emotional support and assistance to those affected.

gofundme Campaigns: Several GoFundMe campaigns have been launched to raise funds for medical expenses and funeral costs