Man dies while in custody of Fort Smith police

Christopher Cody Burns, 41, died in police custody after officers discovered him unresponsive in a patrol vehicle at the Sebastian County Detention Center. Earlier, Burns crashed a stolen vehicle on 62nd Street near Life Church and ran inside, creating a disturbance. Church staff restrained him until police arrived, who then transported him to the detention center. Despite their attempts to revive him, Burns was pronounced dead shortly after reaching Baptist Health in Fort Smith. Arkansas State Police are investigating the circumstances of his death and will submit their findings to the county prosecutor.

The Fort Smith Police Department intends to conduct its investigation following the state police's completion. This incident raises concerns about police protocols when handling individuals in custody. Similar cases have prompted discussions about accountability and transparency within law enforcement agencies.