Your trusted source for local Fort Smith, AR news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The Fayetteville Police Department confirmed no active threats exist at the University of Arkansas after multiple reports of an active shooter were investigated. Classes for Monday have been canceled, but students are free to leave campus, and operations have returned to normal.
Arkansas Lottery results for August 23, 2025, included winning numbers for Powerball, Cash 3, Cash 4, Lucky For Life, Natural State Jackpot, and LOTTO. The Powerball winning numbers were 11-14-34-47-51, with a Powerball of 18 and a Power Play of 2. Tickets can be purchased at various locations or online through Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier.
President Trump plans to sign an executive order to end mail-in voting nationwide before the 2026 midterms. In Arkansas, election officials note that the state's absentee voting process already differs from states that automatically mail ballots. The state's strict rules require voters to request absentee ballots with valid reasons.
Missouri health officials confirmed that a resident died after contracting Naegleria fowleri, commonly known as the "brain-eating" amoeba. The individual had been water skiing at the Lake of the Ozarks prior to falling ill. The infection, which has a survival rate of less than 3%, is extremely rare, with only 167 cases reported in the U.S. since 1962.
Derik Brady, 43, was arrested in Logan County on Thursday for a shooting that occurred on August 19. He faces charges of battery in the first degree and possession of a firearm by a felon. The shooting victim is in stable condition at a hospital.
A Prairie Grove man faces charges for possessing child sexual abuse material after being arrested in a Walmart restroom. Silas Smith, 20, was discovered with video voyeurism evidence, including recordings of women in the bathroom. He remains in custody at the Washington County Detention Center.
Walmart expanded its Bentonville Home Office with the opening of a pharmacy and Gearhead Outfitters. The new stores aim to enhance convenience for Walmart associates and the local community by providing outdoor gear and health services.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has successfully closed spillway gate 20 at Dardanelle Lock and Dam, following a dangerous situation where a spillway remained open for several days. Officials are monitoring water levels in Lake Dardanelle, which is crucial for the cooling of Arkansas Nuclear One, the state's only nuclear facility. Barge traffic around the dam has been halted due to safety concerns.
Arkansas football fans can now rush the field after victories, but a three-minute delay will be enforced to avoid $500,000 fines from the Southeastern Conference. The policy aims to ensure the safety of the visiting team's players and staff as they exit the field. Arkansas's first opportunity to implement this policy will occur on September 27 against No. 6 Notre Dame.
Springdale High School's marching band practices early to mitigate heat-related health risks during football season. Drum major Emily Flores emphasizes the importance of hydration and cooling methods to ensure the band members' safety. The band director adjusts practice breaks as temperatures rise.