Pine Bluff, Arkansas – The Pine Bluff Police Department is asking the public to help solve two ongoing homicide investigations that occurred earlier this year. Detectives are continuing to pursue leads in both cases and believe someone in the community may hold key information.
The first incident took place in the early morning hours of June 16, 2024, near Lake Saracen. Around 12:08 a.m., officers responded to multiple reports of gunfire in the area of Lake Saracen Drive. When they arrived, they found a gray Chevrolet Impala riddled with bullet holes near the west side of the road. Several shell casings were discovered at the scene, indicating that numerous rounds had been fired.
Not long after, four gunshot victims arrived at a local hospital. One of the victims, Corey Berrien, later died from his injuries. The other three sustained non-life-threatening wounds. Preliminary reports suggest the victims were near Saracen Landing when an unknown vehicle approached and began shooting.
Detectives are working to determine who was responsible for the shooting and are asking for anyone with information to come forward. “If you know something, say something,” said John Worthen, public information specialist for the department. “We feel like there is someone out there who can help us solve this case. It’s important that this person or persons speaks up and lets us know so we can close this case for a grieving family.”
The second investigation involves the April 11, 2024, fatal shooting of Kendrell Laws, which occurred around 11:45 a.m. in the 3100 block of South Catalpa Street. Officers responding to the scene found Laws suffering from a gunshot wound to his left side. Emergency responders provided care at the scene before transporting him to Jefferson Regional Medical Center, where he later died.
The suspect in Laws’ killing fled immediately after the shooting and has yet to be identified. Investigators in the Major Crimes Division are continuing to follow leads in the case.
“Help us bring justice for Kendrell Laws and closure to his family,” Worthen said. “Your information, no matter how small, could make a difference.” A reward may be available for tips that lead to an arrest and conviction.
Anyone with information about either homicide is urged to contact the Pine Bluff Police Department Detective Division at (870) 730-2090 or (870) 541-5300. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call the Tip Line at (870) 730-2106.
