Here's your local news at a glance for Monday, the 23rd of June.
Good morning, Little Rock.
A 21-year-old Little Rock man pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and other charges, receiving a 20-year sentence for his role in the shooting that killed an 18-year-old as his brothers witnessed the incident + police continue their manhunt for a second suspect.
A Little Rock man, Montrell Austin (41), saw his motion to suppress key evidence from his federal narcotics and weapons case denied, and his trial is set to begin today at 9:30 a.m. at the Richard Sheppard Arnold U.S. District Courthouse.
Prosecutors will seek an enhanced penalty if he is convicted based on a past cocaine base conviction.
On Sunday at 7:30 a.m., a man coming home from work discovered his wife and in-laws dead with possible gunshot wounds in a Bryant home on Lena Drive in the Benjamin Grove subdivision—police said there were no signs of forced entry or a home invasion—and he also found three uninjured children at the scene.
The LEARNS Act raised teachers' minimum salary to $50,000 with a $2,000 bonus to help attract new educators, but many schools still face challenges keeping veteran teachers.
A recent report found that teacher retention has stabilized yet remains below pre-pandemic levels—leaving districts uncertain if current strategies will fully address the staffing shortage.
State police pursuits dropped by 22% in the first five months compared to last year—171 chases were recorded this year versus 219 then.
Troopers used a ramming tactic in half of the chases, and Director Col. Mike Hagar said new laws and meetings with prosecutors helped lower the risks during these pursuits.
The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism purchased five privacy pods—phone booths for private calls—in the Arkansas Heritage building as it moves 127 employees today from the Multi-Agency Complex with plans to finish by the end of August.
Each pod cost $9,890.67 and will serve both staff and visitors in key areas of the building.
On Sunday, the Arkansas Travelers beat the Wichita Wind Surge 9-2 at Dickey-Stephens Park in North Little Rock to finish the first half of the Texas League season with a winning record—Traveler manager Ryan Scott praised strong offense and effective pitching as the team prepares to open the second half on Tuesday against the Amarillo Sod Poodles.
Long snapper Eli Haltom committed to the Arkansas Razorbacks football team, fulfilling his lifelong dream & he made the decision after considering his athletic future.
Victor Lincoln Jr., an Oklahoma State defensive back commit, may join Arkansas football after his official visit to Fayetteville—coaches say his decision will shape the team’s future plans.
Demola Live Concert
8:00 – 11:59 p.m. — The Hall — Cost not specified — Enjoy a lively performance with Demola that promises great entertainment.
Arkansas Twisters Football Game
7-10 p.m. — Interstate Park — Ticket required — Experience the thrill of fast-paced eight-man football with the Arkansas Twisters in Little Rock.
Reverend Horton Heat Concert
8-9:30 p.m. — The Hall — $34.48-$58.69 — Enjoy a night of rockabilly and rock music with Reverend Horton Heat and Jason D Williams.
DCI - Drum Corps International
7:30-9 p.m. — War Memorial Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the powerful performances of youth drum corps and support arts education.
One Night Only - A Tribute To The Bee Gees
7:30-9 p.m. — Robinson Center — Cost info not provided — Experience the harmonies and beautiful falsetto voices of the Bee Gees with a full band performance.
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