In a tragic turn of events, the quiet community of Fordyce, Arkansas, was shattered by a devastating mass shooting at the Mad Butcher grocery store. On Friday, June 21, 2024, at approximately 11:38 a.m., Arkansas State Police were dispatched to the scene in response to reports of an active shooter. The incident resulted in the deaths of three individuals, including 23-year-old Callie Weems, a beloved nurse at the Dallas County Medical Center. Additionally, eleven people were injured, including two law enforcement officers. The shooter, 44-year-old Travis Posey, was taken into custody after being injured during a shootout with responding officers.
The events unfolded rapidly, causing chaos and fear among shoppers and staff at the grocery store. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots and described the scene as a nightmare. “It was like a war zone,” said one shopper who managed to escape unharmed. “People were screaming, running for cover, and trying to help the injured. It was pure terror.”
Callie Weems, who was identified by her mother, Helen, to Merradon news, was one of the victims who tragically lost her life. Callie was at the grocery store shopping on her day off from work when the shooting occurred. She was a dedicated nurse at the Dallas County Medical Center and a mother to a 10-month-old daughter. Her sudden and tragic death has left her family, friends, and the entire community in mourning.
Callie’s mother, Helen, expressed her devastation and grief over the loss of her daughter. “Callie was the light of our lives. She was so full of joy, always smiling, and had a heart of gold. She loved her job and her patients, and she was an amazing mother to her daughter. We are heartbroken and can’t believe she’s gone.”
The other two victims who succumbed to their injuries have not yet been publicly identified, as authorities are in the process of notifying their families. The remaining eight civilians who were injured in the incident are receiving medical care, with their conditions ranging from non-life-threatening to critical.
The two law enforcement officers injured in the shootout are expected to recover. Their quick and brave response to the active shooter situation likely prevented further casualties. Arkansas State Police Director Mike Hagar praised the officers’ actions, stating, “The bravery and quick response of our officers were crucial in stopping the shooter and preventing even more loss of life. We are grateful for their dedication and service.”
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders issued a statement expressing her condolences to the families affected by the shooting and commending the law enforcement officers for their heroic actions. “Our hearts are broken for the families who lost their loved ones in this senseless act of violence. We commend the bravery of the officers who risked their lives to protect others. We will ensure that all state resources are available to assist in the investigation and provide support for the victims and their families.”
The suspect, Travis Posey, who was injured in the exchange of gunfire with the police, is currently being held at the Ouachita County Sheriff’s Office on charges of first-degree murder. Authorities have confirmed that Posey is the owner of Posey Tree Service in Kingsland, Cleveland County. The motive for the shooting remains unclear, and investigators are working diligently to uncover any potential reasons behind this horrific act.
The community of Fordyce, with a population of just over 3,000, is grappling with the shock and grief of the tragedy. Residents have been gathering at local vigils and memorials to honor the victims and support the grieving families. The outpouring of love and solidarity from the community has been overwhelming, as neighbors, friends, and even strangers come together to provide comfort and support during this difficult time.
Local businesses and organizations have also stepped up to assist those affected by the shooting. Fundraisers and donation drives have been organized to help cover medical expenses for the injured and funeral costs for the deceased. The Dallas County Medical Center, where Callie Weems worked, has set up a memorial fund in her honor to support her young daughter’s future needs.
Anna Morshedi of Greater Little Rock Moms Demand Action and Insherah Qazi of Students Demand Action have emphasized the need for stricter gun regulations in the wake of this tragedy. They highlighted Arkansas’s lax gun laws and the state’s high number of gun deaths, calling for immediate action to prevent future incidents of gun violence.
The Gun Violence Archive has documented that this is Arkansas’s second mass shooting this month and the sixth this year, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address gun violence. Advocates are pushing for policies that include universal background checks, red flag laws, and restrictions on high-capacity magazines and assault weapons.
As the investigation continues, more details are expected to emerge about the circumstances leading up to the shooting and the background of the suspect involved. Authorities are conducting interviews with witnesses, reviewing surveillance footage, and examining evidence from the scene to piece together the events that led to this tragic incident.
The impact of this mass shooting will be felt for a long time in the small town of Fordyce. The community’s sense of safety has been shattered, and many residents are struggling to come to terms with the violence that has disrupted their lives. Mental health professionals and grief counselors have been made available to provide support to those affected by the tragedy, including the families of the victims, the injured, and the first responders who were on the scene.
In the aftermath of the shooting, local leaders are calling for unity and resilience. Mayor John Smith of Fordyce addressed the community, saying, “We are a strong and close-knit community. We will get through this together. Let’s support each other, be there for one another, and work towards healing and rebuilding our sense of security.”
As the investigation progresses and more information becomes available, the community remains vigilant and hopeful for justice and peace. The memory of those lost in this senseless act of violence will not be forgotten, and their legacies will live on through the love and support of their families, friends, and community members.
