Your trusted source for local Fort Smith, AR news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Fort Smith Police's Violent Crimes Task Force arrested 12 individuals and filed 25 felony charges since its launch on July 29, responding to a rise in gun-related violence, including drive-by shootings. The operation also recovered five firearms and involved both adults and juveniles. In a separate case, police arrested a 14-year-old for a bomb threat against a local middle school.
Arkansas Lottery announced the winning numbers for its draw games on October 10, 2025, including Mega Millions and Cash 3. Notable results include Mega Millions numbers of 03-18-23-32-56 with a Mega Ball of 08 and Cash 3 Evening numbers of 3-3-9. Players can check payouts and previous drawings through the official lottery channels.
The Arkansas Lottery announced winning numbers for its draw games on October 9, 2025, including Cash 3, Cash 4, Lucky For Life, and Natural State Jackpot. Players can purchase tickets in person or through the Jackpocket app, which allows digital ticket ordering in several states.
Harps Food Stores opened its 160th location in Fort Smith on October 8, 2025. The 39,000-square-foot store offers a variety of fresh produce, meats, and a full-service deli, catering to the growing community at Chaffee Crossing. CEO Kim Eskew emphasized his personal connection to the area and the store's role in supporting local residents.
Arkansas farmers face projected average losses of $273.71 per acre for corn and $352.75 for cotton in 2025, marking a third consecutive year of financial decline. The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture attributes this downturn to falling commodity prices and rising input costs, including a 25% increase in seed prices since 2020.
A Justice Department report urges police to follow up on DNA evidence from unsolved rape cases, highlighting persistent issues despite nearly $350 million in federal grants since 2015. The report identifies significant deficiencies, including a lack of penalties for agencies that ignore the recommendations, resulting in thousands of DNA matches going unaddressed.
Students at the University of Arkansas gathered to honor conservative activist Charlie Kirk during a memorial and prayer service, condemning political violence. The event, organized by Turning Point USA, aimed to promote unity and open dialogue among students. Attendees included campus ministers and local officials, emphasizing the importance of free speech and safety.
Federal investigators in Utah continue to search for the shooter who assassinated conservative activist Charlie Kirk, releasing new photos and video footage of a person of interest. A high-powered rifle and other evidence have been recovered, while authorities offer a $100,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. The attack, which occurred during a public speech, has raised concerns about political violence in the U.S.
Conservative activist Charlie Kirk's death elicited strong reactions from the local community, particularly from friends and fellow conservatives. Abigail DeJarnatt, who co-founded a Turning Point USA chapter at the University of Arkansas, emphasized Kirk's inspiring role in the conservative movement. A prayer vigil was held in his memory, highlighting the community's commitment to continue his legacy.
University of Arkansas–Fort Smith sophomore Connor Bibliano ran 12.21 miles on Thursday to honor the victims of the Sept. 11 attacks and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. What started as a solo tribute evolved into a community effort, with Bibliano receiving a police escort and a running partner joining him along the route.