CRIME & LAW

Fort Smith woman sought after teen fatal shooting

PUBLISHED Jul 9, 2026, 1:21 AM ET

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Fort Smith. Fort Smith police are seeking 19-year-old Jasmine Ashanti Johnston in the Tuesday fatal shooting of a 16-year-old boy near the southbound on-ramp of Interstate 540 and Kelley Highway around 6 p.m. Officers found the youth with life-threatening injuries, transported him to a hospital, and he later died, police said. Wednesday, detectives obtained an arrest warrant through the Sebastian County Prosecuting Attorney's Office charging Johnston with first-degree murder and aggravated robbery; the Fort Smith Police Department warned she should be considered armed and extremely dangerous and asked the public not to approach her but to call 911, Aric Mitchell confirmed the homicide investigation.

By Daniel Hayes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Tuesday ~6:00 p.m. – Shooting occurred near the southbound I-540 on-ramp at Kelley Highway; officers found a 16-year-old with life-threatening injuries.
Tuesday night – Victim was transported to a hospital for treatment.
Wednesday morning – Police released that the 16-year-old died from injuries sustained in the shooting.
Wednesday – Detectives obtained an arrest warrant via the Sebastian County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for Jasmine Ashanti Johnston, 19.
Wednesday – Police warned Johnston is armed and extremely dangerous and asked the public to call 911 if they have information.

News Intelligence

This incident underscores the importance of community vigilance. Your safety could be at risk with an armed suspect on the loose. If you see Jasmine Ashanti Johnston, don't approach her. Call 911 immediately.

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