MOUNTAIN VIEW, Ark. – Deputy Justin Smith was fatally wounded Tuesday, Jan. 2, while attempting to serve a misdemeanor terroristic threatening warrant on 52-year-old Clinton Hefton at a home on Sawmill Road in Mountain View, ASP said.
“Early evidence indicates that Hefton resisted arrest and fired on Deputy Smith, who was found mortally wounded by officers who responded to reports of shots fired,” the news release said.
Officers arrested Hefton following a brief standoff. He is being held at the Cleburne County Detention Center awaiting the filing of formal charges.
“At this time, we ask that everyone pray for Deputy Smith’s family and all of his law enforcement brothers and sisters,” said Stone County Sheriff Brandon Long.
Deputy Smith’s body will be transported from the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory in Little Rock at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 3, to Moutain View.
Funeral arrangments are pending; however, ASP said the public was invited to visit a temporary tribute to Deputy Smith on the courthouse square.
Arkansas law enforcement and state leaders have offered their condolences upon learning of Deputy Smith’s death.
I am deeply saddened to learn that a Stone County Sheriff’s deputy was killed earlier today. Details are still forthcoming, but please join me in praying for the family, friends and colleagues of this fallen deputy. #LawEnforcement #arnews pic.twitter.com/z0OOLEByeN
— Attorney General Tim Griffin (@AGTimGriffin) January 3, 2024
