CASH, Ark. – A Lawrence County man faces serious charges in connection with a fatal multi-car pileup in October 2023 that claimed two lives in northeast Arkansas.
Arkansas State Police arrested 55-year-old Charles Benham of Alicia this week, booking him into the Jackson County Detention Center on a charge of felony reckless burning. According to prosecutors, the incident stems from Benham’s oversight of a controlled burn that spiraled into tragedy on U.S. Highway 67.
The pileup occurred near Mile Marker 102 after smoke from a nearby grass fire drastically reduced visibility, causing a chain reaction of accidents. According to the Arkansas State Police, 16 vehicles were involved in the crash, which took place on the afternoon of October 3. Among the victims were 68-year-old Thomas Blevins and 55-year-old Terry Lutz, both of Ohio, who died from injuries sustained in the wreck.
Court documents reveal that Benham was an employee of Cason Farms and was responsible for overseeing the burning of a field owned by the company. Investigators determined that Benham left the fire unattended for approximately 30 minutes, allowing the blaze to grow out of control. At the time of the fire, strong winds pushed smoke across all four lanes of traffic, leading to the massive pileup.
Emergency responders faced additional challenges in reaching the scene due to the thick smoke covering the area.
Reckless burning is a Class D felony in Arkansas, carrying a possible prison sentence of up to six years and fines up to $10,000. As the investigation unfolds, residents of Jackson County remain shocked by the deadly accident and the subsequent charges.
This incident highlights the dangers of improperly managed burns, especially near heavily traveled highways. With the safety of drivers and local residents at stake, the case serves as a tragic reminder of the consequences of negligence.
