The First Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney’s Office has determined that a Woodruff County Sheriff’s Office deputy was justified in the use of lethal force during an officer-involved shooting that occurred on March 15, 2026.
According to officials, deputies with the Woodruff County Sheriff’s Office responded around 4:15 a.m. to a residence in the 1100 block of White Drive in Augusta Arkansas. The call was made to assist officers from the Augusta Police Department with a reported disturbance.
During the encounter, a deputy discharged his service weapon, striking the suspect, identified as 45-year-old Randy Ealy of Franklin Arkansas. Ealy was pronounced dead at the scene.
At the request of the sheriff’s office, investigators with the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division conducted an independent review of the incident. After completing their investigation, agents submitted the case file to the Woodruff County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
In a letter dated April 6, 2026, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney John Bell concluded the deputy’s actions were consistent with Arkansas law. The review determined the deputy acted within the scope of his authority and had a reasonable belief that the suspect was about to use deadly force.
No charges will be filed in connection with the shooting.
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