Arkansas State Police reports 16% drop in traffic deaths and probes two in‑custody fatalities

The Arkansas State Police released preliminary data showing that, through mid‑2026, 245 people have died in traffic crashes in the state, a 16% decrease from the same point in 2025. Officials credited the decline to expanded highway patrols, traffic‑enforcement campaigns and public‑safety initiatives such as Click It or Ticket and increased DWI checkpoints. State Police Director Colonel Mike Hagar noted the trend despite rising traffic volumes.

Separately, the agency is investigating two unrelated in‑custody deaths. In West Memphis, 40‑year‑old Tony Sanders died after being taken to the Crittenden County Sheriff’s Department following an arrest. In Fayetteville, 36‑year‑old Jordan Ferchow died after processing at the Washington County Detention Center. Both investigations remain ongoing, and no additional details have been released.