The Fort Smith Police Department has issued an arrest warrant for Jasmine Ashanti Johnston, 19, of Fort Smith, in connection with the fatal shooting of a 16-year-old that occurred Tuesday evening in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
According to investigators, the shooting is believed to have taken place in the 5300 block of Elm Street, approximately one block from the fairgrounds. Following the shooting, the critically injured teenager was transported by private vehicle to the area of Interstate 540 and Kelley Highway, near the Arkansas State Police headquarters. Emergency responders then took the victim to a local hospital, where the teen later died from the injuries sustained in the shooting.
On Wednesday, the Fort Smith Police Department announced that detectives had secured an arrest warrant for Johnston through the Sebastian County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. She has been charged with First-Degree Murder and Aggravated Robbery in connection with the incident.
Authorities have warned that Johnston should be considered armed and extremely dangerous. Law enforcement is urging anyone who sees her or has information about her whereabouts not to approach her. Instead, they should immediately call 911 or contact local law enforcement.
Police have not released the identity of the 16-year-old victim, and investigators say the homicide investigation remains active. Officials are withholding additional details to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation.
The Fort Smith Police Department continues to ask for the public’s assistance in locating Johnston and encourages anyone with information that could aid the investigation to come forward.
