Arkansas – A high-speed chase on Interstate 30 culminated in a dramatic shootout between Arkansas State Police troopers and a suspect, resulting in the latter’s death. This intense confrontation occurred on Monday afternoon, following a pursuit initiated by Saline County deputies.
The suspect, identified by special agents as 35-year-old Aaron T. Watson from Hot Springs, was wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service. The reason for the pursuit was Watson’s use of fake license plates. The chase, which spanned a significant portion of the interstate, ended near the University Avenue exit in Little Rock.
In a critical turn of events, a state trooper managed to halt the pursuit by ramming his vehicle into Watson’s on I-30. Following the collision, Arkansas State Police (ASP) officials reported that Watson opened fire at the law enforcement officers. In response, the officers returned fire, ultimately striking and killing Watson. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
In the aftermath of the incident, ASP officials confirmed that none of the state troopers or Benton police officers involved in the shooting were injured. However, the identities of the officers who participated in the exchange of gunfire have not been disclosed.
The situation is now under review by the prosecuting attorney, who will determine if the use of deadly force by the officers was in accordance with Arkansas law. This incident marks a significant and somber event in the state, highlighting the potential dangers faced by law enforcement officers during high-speed pursuits and confrontations with armed suspects.
