Cotton Plant, AR – A Missouri man shot by police in March during a confrontation in Cotton Plant, Arkansas, was the subject of a justified use-of-force ruling, according to state officials.
According to the Arkansas State Police, the incident occurred on Monday, March 24, 2025, around 6:30 p.m., when officers with the Cotton Plant Police Department responded to reports of a shooting in the 300 block of Rush Street. Authorities say Michael Crenshaw, 21, of Missouri, allegedly shot 65-year-old Linzy Motton of Cotton Plant before fleeing on foot.
Crenshaw was later found walking along Main Street, where Motton also appeared, leading to an alleged altercation between the two. During the confrontation, Crenshaw reportedly held a weapon to Motton’s head, prompting a CPPD officer to fire his weapon, striking Crenshaw.
Following the incident, special agents from the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division were requested by the Woodruff County Sheriff’s Office to conduct an independent investigation. The findings were submitted to the First Judicial Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, who determined that the officer’s use of deadly force complied with Arkansas law.
In a letter dated Monday, June 23, 2025, addressed to the Arkansas State Police, Deputy Prosecutor Bell wrote that the officer “responded appropriately and heroically to a dangerous situation, and his actions undoubtedly prevented further bloodshed.”
Crenshaw’s condition following the shooting has not been publicly disclosed. No charges were filed against the officer.
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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