Crime & Safety
Arkansas State Police Fatally Shoot Man After 2-County Pursuit
Camden, AR – A 43 year old Arkansas man was fatally shot by a state trooper Wednesday, Nov. 11, after authorities say he allegedly fired at law enforcement officers and led police on a pursuit spannin
By Blake Harrison · 2026-11-12T21:14:04.890Z
Camden, AR – A 43 year old Arkansas man was fatally shot by a state trooper Wednesday, Nov. 11, after authorities say he allegedly fired at law enforcement officers and led police on a pursuit spanning two counties in southern Arkansas.
According to Arkansas State Police, the incident began around 7:50 a.m. when Ouachita County sheriff 's deputies responded to a reported domestic violence incident at a residence along Ouachita County Road 51.
Authorities identified the man as Clay Gresham, 43, of Camden.
Investigators said Gresham had already fled the residence when deputies arrived, prompting the sheriff's office to request additional assistance.
Troopers from Arkansas State Police Troop F, Calhoun County deputies, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission personnel and agents from the 13th Judicial Drug Task Force joined the response.
At approximately 11:40 a.m., officers located the suspected vehicle along Calhoun County Road 219.
Police said the pursuit continued along Highway 274, where Gresham allegedly fired at an Arkansas state trooper leading the chase.
The trooper returned fire, striking Gresham, whose vehicle subsequently left the roadway and crashed.
Gresham was pronounced dead by the Union County coroner.
His body was transported to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory, where officials will determine the official cause and manner of death.
Arkansas State Police confirmed its Criminal Investigation Division is investigating the fatal shooting.
Investigators will submit their findings to the Calhoun County prosecuting attorney's office, which will determine whether the trooper's use of deadly force complied with Arkansas law.
Authorities have not released the trooper's identity or reported whether any officers were injured.
The investigation remains ongoing.