OCTOBER 24, 2021

Authorities within the Conway Police Department have requested the Arkansas State Police to investigate a shooting incident involving two of their officers.  Earlier today, both Conway officers returned gunfire on a driver who had pointed a gun at one of the policemen and fired, wounding the officer.

Nicholas Smith, 35, of Conway, the driver of the car stopped by police, died at the scene.  The wounded officer was transported to a nearby hospital where he was initially expected to recover.

The traffic stop occurred at College Avenue and Fairway Drive about 12:49 AM.  The reason for stopping the car driven by Smith was based on information related to an earlier residential disturbance in the area.  Smith exited the vehicle and pulled the gun from his pants pocket, pointed it at one of the police officers and fired.  The gunshot struck one leg of the officer.  Smith then retreated to the front of the car where he was shot by police.

Special Agents of the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division have been assigned to the case.

Smith’s body and evidence collected by the agents will be transported to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory for examination and analysis.

An investigative case file to be prepared by the agents will be submitted to the Faulkner County prosecuting attorney who will use the file to assist in the determination whether the use of deadly force by the police officers was consistent with Arkansas laws.

Questions relating to the identity of the police officers, or their administrative status, should be directed to the Conway Police Department.