Your trusted source for local Fort Smith, AR news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Arkansas basketball coach John Calipari's 17-year streak of having a player selected in the first round of the NBA Draft ended as no Razorbacks were picked in Brooklyn. Adou Thiero, the only Arkansas player projected to be selected early, is expected to go in the second round instead. Calipari's streak began in 2008 while coaching at Memphis.
Rogers police arrested Felipe Perez-Flores, 47, for allegedly making and selling fake ID cards, including social security and permanent resident cards. Officers discovered evidence of his operation during a search of his home, where they found forged documents and over $482,000 in cash.
A tornado rated EF-1 struck West Fork, Arkansas, on June 18, with peak winds of 90 to 100 mph. The tornado caused significant damage to outbuildings and trees over a path of 2.3 miles before dissipating after four minutes. This event marks the 58th tornado in Arkansas for the year, surpassing the average annual count.
The 81st Rodeo of the Ozarks opens Wednesday in Springdale, featuring four nights of themed competitions and community activities. Proceeds will benefit local nonprofits and student scholarships, promising family-friendly entertainment.
Traffic on Interstate 49 southbound in Rogers came to a halt Thursday afternoon due to a wreck at mile marker 79.4. Emergency responders cleared the scene by 5:15 p.m., but no details on vehicles or injuries were immediately available.
Firework stands opened across Arkansas as officials urge residents to prioritize safety ahead of the July Fourth celebrations. Benton County residents must check local ordinances and avoid homemade fireworks, which are illegal. Fire safety tips include using fireworks outdoors and keeping water nearby for duds.
Juan Salazar-Lopez, 48, died last week at the Sebastian County Detention Center while held for ICE. He was found unresponsive in his cell and later pronounced dead at a hospital; no foul play is suspected. Arkansas State Police is investigating the incident as standard protocol for jail deaths.
Fayetteville High School graduates launched the Fayetteville High School Alumni Association to connect former students of all ages. Founder Jack Butt received recognition as the first member, expressing pride in the achievements of alumni. The association offers a digital directory and invites to special events.
Fireworks regulations vary across Northwest Arkansas and the River Valley for Independence Day celebrations. In Benton County, for example, Bentonville allows fireworks from July 3 to 4, while Rogers prohibits bottle rockets and fireworks on city property. Residents should check local ordinances to ensure compliance.
Two men, Billy Nelson, 45, and Eddie Sterling, 54, face capital murder charges following a double homicide in Crawford County. The sheriff confirmed the shooting occurred near Chester, where authorities found two elderly victims aged 66 and 70. The suspects are held without bond as the investigation continues.