AGE: 30
RACE: White
SEX: Male
DATE OF DEATH: April 20, 1989
CAUSE: Gunshot
COUNTY: White
CASE NUMBER: 72-780-89
On the morning of April 20, 1989, the body of an unidentified white male was discovered under a wooden bridge on County Road 123 in White County. The victim had been shot multiple times. The State Medical Examiner, who estimated the victim to be in his early 20s, stated that he was approximately 6 feet tall and weighed 226 pounds. The State Crime Lab identified the weapon as a .22 caliber rifle.
UPDATE: In 2024, the victim’s DNA was submitted to the Othram forensic lab in Woodlands, Texas, where scientists developed a comprehensive DNA profile. On June 13, 2025, the victim was identified as Karl Brian Hooten. Read details HERE.
The Arkansas State Police was requested to assist with the homicide investigation by the White County Sheriff’s Office. If you have any information about this case, please contact ASP Company F at (870) 931-0043.
