UPDATE * UPDATE * UPDATE
The Faulkner County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) has requested the Arkansas State Police (ASP) Criminal Investigation Division (CID) to investigate an officer-involved shooting involving the K-9 team from the Arkansas Department of Corrections (DOC).
On Thursday, March 6, 2025, the FCSO issued a BOLO for Joseph Blair, 41, of Faulkner County. Blair was an absconder from the DOC and was considered armed and dangerous. The FCSO and U.S. Marshals tracked Blair throughout the day.
At around 6:30 p.m., the DOC K-9 team located Blair, who was armed with a firearm, in a wooded area near the Solomon Grove Baptist Church in Faulkner County. DOC officers fired at Blair, fatally striking him. The Faulkner County Coroner pronounced Blair deceased at approximately 8:30 p.m.
The deceased will be transported to the Arkansas State Crime Lab to determine the manner and cause of death.
ASP CID agents will prepare a case file to present to the Faulkner County Prosecutor, who will determine whether deadly force was consistent with Arkansas law.
The investigation is ongoing.
The following information has been released from local law enforcement.
The Faulkner County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the United States Marshals Service, has issued a public safety warning. Residents are advised to be on the lookout for Joseph Blair, who is considered armed and dangerous. You can view a photo of the suspect below.
Suspect Reportedly Armed And Dangerous Near Damascus, Arkansas
Blair was last seen near the Damascus area, and law enforcement is currently in active pursuit. The public is urged not to confront him and to call 911 immediately if sighted.
The suspect’s photo has been released to aid in identification efforts. Further updates will be provided via #FaulknerCountyLaw and #FCSONews.
For the latest information, follow the Faulkner County Sheriff’s Office on social media. Stay vigilant and prioritize your safety.
Please note: All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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