BNPD: ARREST MADE IN FATAL HIT AND RUN INVOLVING JUVENILE VICTIM

Monday, February 27th, 2023

Jerrica Speed

Following a lengthy investigation, Benton Police Department detectives announced today the arrest of 28-year-old Jerrica Speed, of Hot Springs, for her involvement in the death of 13-year-old Zarious Evans, of Benton, on Jan. 15.

Speed is charged with Leaving the Scene of an Accident Involving Death or Serious Injury—Class D Felony; Negligent Homicide—Class A Misdemeanor; and Obstructing Governmental Operations—Class A Misdemeanor. She was issued a $5000 cash/ sheriff’s bond. Three juveniles are also facing Curfew Violation and other misdemeanor charges in relation to the incident.

Initial information regarding the incident is as follows:

Jan. 16 Initial:

BNPD officers responded to the area of the 19000 block of the South Service Road just before 7 a.m. Sunday for reports of an unresponsive juvenile male. Upon arrival, officers discovered a deceased 13-year-old black male, believed to be the victim of a hit-and-run occurring in the early morning hours. Evidence on scene suggests a black Nissan Pathfinder with damage to the passenger side as the vehicle involved.

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Jan. 17 Update:

Benton Police Department detectives continue their investigation of the fatal hit-and-run incident that occurred the morning of Jan. 15. Jerrica Speed, 28, of Hot Springs, has been named as the driver. Speed made contact with authorities regarding the incident and investigators were able to confirm the vehicle’s involvement.