Benton Police Department detectives announced today they have identified the vehicle and driver involved in the Jan. 15 incident resulting in the death of one juvenile victim. The name of the driver is not being released at this time as detectives continue their investigation.
More information may be released as the investigation continues. Anyone with information regarding the incident is still urged to contact BNPD.
Initial information is as follows:
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.
BNPD Criminal Investigations Division has assumed the investigation, which remains ongoing. Additional updates may be forthcoming as information becomes available.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Benton Police Department at 501-778-1171 or 501-776-5947. You can also anonymously text “BENTONPD plus your message” to 847411 or leave a tip via the official BNPD app available on iTunes and Google Play.