Fort Smith, Arkansas – A Fort Smith man died Wednesday after being taken into police custody, prompting an investigation by the Arkansas State Police.
According to the Arkansas State Police, 41-year-old Christopher Cody Burns died after being transported by Fort Smith Police Department (FSPD) officers to the Sebastian County Detention Center. Officers said they found Burns unresponsive in their patrol vehicle upon arrival at the jail on Wednesday.
Authorities stated the incident began earlier that day when officers responded to a vehicle crash on 62nd Street near Life.Church. Witnesses said Burns, who was allegedly driving a vehicle reported stolen earlier that day, fled the scene and entered the church, reportedly causing a disturbance. Church staff members detained Burns until officers arrived and took him into custody.
Police say paramedics were called to the detention center and transported Burns to Baptist Health – Fort Smith, where he was pronounced dead.
The Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division is now reviewing the circumstances surrounding Burns’ death. Findings will be submitted to the Sebastian County prosecuting attorney’s office once the investigation concludes.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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