2 Charged in Connection with 2019 Fatal Shooting in Searcy
In a significant development, authorities in Searcy have formally charged two men in relation to a 2019 shooting incident that tragically resulted in the loss of a life. As announced in a recent police press release, the individuals currently face severe legal consequences.
Justice Cunningham, aged 27, and Andre Smith, aged 26, both local residents of Searcy, have been charged with capital murder for their alleged roles in the November 23, 2019, death of Thomas Hunt, 41, also from Searcy. The revelation came to light following a collaborative investigation involving the Searcy police and the 17th Judicial District Drug Task Force, which unearthed substantial evidence warranting these charges.
Both suspects were already in custody at the White County jail at the time of their indictment. Cunningham, apprehended on October 17, was facing charges related to witness bribery and unlawful firearm possession. Furthermore, federal authorities are also holding him on behalf of the U.S. Marshals Service, complicating his legal scenario.
Smith, on the other hand, is currently on a waiting list for the Arkansas Department of Corrections. His circumstances stem from an October 9 sentencing where he was handed a three-year prison term. This sentence was linked to charges of possessing a defaced firearm and unlawful possession of a firearm, escalating his legal troubles. Records indicate his initial arrest took place in December 2023.
The chain of events traces back to a fateful day in November 2019. On that day, police officers responded to an emergency dispatch in the Market and Moss streets vicinity. Upon arrival, they discovered Thomas Hunt, who had been struck by gunfire multiple times. Despite medical efforts, Hunt succumbed to his injuries, marking a grim episode in the community’s history.
This recent charging of Cunningham and Smith represents a crucial step towards resolving a long-standing and tragic case. The pursuit of justice serves not only as a closure for the victim’s family but also signifies the relentless effort of law enforcement agencies to uphold safety and accountability within the community.
The community remains on edge as these legal proceedings progress, reflecting a collective hope for justice in the wake of this tragedy.
