Two suspects have been arrested in relation to a recent shooting investigation involving a two year old child. The suspects are identified as Tabitha Ashley (23 YOA) and Phillip Ashley (27 YOA), both of Benton.
Based on information and evidence discovered during the investigation, detectives arrested both suspects without incident on 11/23/15. They are both charged with Manslaughter and Endangering the Welfare of a Minor 1st Degree in relation to the self-inflicted shooting death of their two-year old son.
This is still an on-going investigation and additional charges could be possible as it progresses. Detectives are working closely with the Saline County Prosecutors Office, DHS, Arkansas State Crime Lab, and other agencies in furtherance of determining the facts of the case.
Original Press Release:
On 11/17/15, at approximately 1:35 PM, the Benton Police Department (BNPD) received a call about a two year old child being shot at an address on Nelson Court.
The child had been transported privately to an area hospital where officers and detectives responded. The child was subsequently transported to a hospital in Little Rock for additional treatment, but later died as a result of injuries sustained.
This is an on-going death investigation and no charges have been filed at this time. No further details can be released at this time due to the sensitive nature of the case, but additional information will be released when possible.
Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Benton Police Department at 501-778-1171 or 501-315-TIPS. Individuals also may send us anonymous information to CRIMES (274637) with the keyword BNPD in the body of the text or go to www.crimereports.com to leave a tip. A crime tip can also be submitted via the official Benton Police Department app found on ITunes and Google Play.
Any suspects listed are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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