“Pine Bluff Homicide Rate Continues to Rise for Third Day”

By Trend News Line 2024-06-19 03:29:00.

Pine Bluff Community in Shock as Third Homicide Investigation Opened

The Pine Bluff Police Department is currently investigating its third homicide in as many days, leaving the community reeling and pleading for change. The recent spate of violence has shaken residents to their core, with many expressing sorrow and concern for the safety of their city.

Heartbreak and Grief Grips Pine Bluff

Stevie Turner, a local resident and barber shop worker, shared his heartbreak over the recent homicides, stating, “It hurts my heart that the family has got to go through it. The city has to go through it.” Turner, who knew some of the victims personally, expressed shock and disbelief at the senseless loss of life.

Tragic Details Unfold

The string of homicides began on Sunday when four individuals were shot at Saracen Landing, resulting in the death of 20-year-old Corey Berrien. The following day, a woman named Mary Christopher was found shot in a car near Cherry Street Liquor Store. Tragically, it was later discovered that Mary’s husband, Gregory Christopher Sr., had taken his own life in what police believe to be a murder-suicide.

On Tuesday morning, the body of 50-year-old Zedella Samuels was found on West 33rd Avenue and South Hazel Street. Authorities suspect she was struck by a car overnight and are treating her death as a homicide. The community is left grappling with the loss of these individuals and seeking answers in the wake of such senseless violence.

Community Leaders Call for Action

Reverend Jesse Turner and other pastors have been actively working to combat gun violence in Pine Bluff, particularly among teenagers. Their efforts have seen a 33% reduction in violence among students in local schools within just one year. They emphasize the importance of community involvement, with Rev. Turner stating, “You got to have people on the ground, communicating with one another and showing the effort to let people know we are not going to have the violence in the community.”

Urgent Plea for Unity

As the city grapples with the recent tragedies, community members are calling for unity and a collaborative effort to address the root causes of violence. Pine Bluff pastor James Hill Jr. stressed the need for cooperation between residents, city leaders, and law enforcement to create a safer environment for all. Despite the challenges faced by the community, there is a shared determination to work towards a future free of crime and violence.

Police Investigation Underway

The Pine Bluff Police Department is actively investigating the recent homicides, with no current indication that the cases are connected. At this time, there is no information on potential suspects, leaving many in the community on edge as they await further updates from law enforcement..

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– Homicide in Pine Bluff AR.