The Dark Side of the Natural State: 5 Shocking True Crime Cases from Arkansas

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Arkansas is a state known for its natural beauty and southern charm, but it’s also been the setting for some of the most shocking true crime cases in American history. From notorious murders to deadly shootouts, here are five of the most high-profile true crime cases that shook the Natural State.

1. The West Memphis Three: In 1993, three young boys were found brutally murdered in West Memphis, Arkansas. The ensuing investigation and trial led to the conviction of three teenagers known as the West Memphis Three, who were accused of practicing satanic rituals and killing the boys. The case has been highly controversial and the three were eventually released from prison after being exonerated.
2. The Jonesboro School Shooting: In 1998, two young boys opened fire at their middle school in Jonesboro, Arkansas, killing five people and injuring 10 others. The boys were eventually convicted and sentenced to life in prison.
3. The Murder of Kevin Ives and Don Henry: In 1987, two boys were found dead on railroad tracks in Saline County, Arkansas. Their deaths were initially ruled as accidental, but evidence later suggested they were murdered. The case became known as the “boys on the tracks” case and remains unsolved.
4. The Westside Middle School Massacre: In 1998, a boy and a girl opened fire at their middle school in Jonesboro, Arkansas, killing four students and one teacher. The two shooters were both convicted and sentenced to prison.
5. The Leflore County Shootout: In 2017, two prison escapees from Arkansas killed two correctional officers and then led police on a high-speed chase that ended in a deadly shootout in rural Arkansas. One of the escapees was killed and the other was captured and sentenced to death.

These are just a few of the many shocking true crime cases from Arkansas. While the Natural State may be beautiful and charming, it’s also been the site of some of the most violent crimes in American history.

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