In the early evening of September 23, 2025, the life of 29-year-old Jimmie Epperson was tragically cut short in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. Officers from the Pine Bluff Police Department were dispatched to the vicinity of 615 South Missouri Street around 9:05 p.m. following reports of a shooting. Upon their arrival, they discovered Epperson, a male, lying unresponsive on the ground, having sustained multiple gunshot wounds.
The Jefferson County Deputy Coroner pronounced him deceased at the scene.
The investigation into the death of Jimmie Epperson quickly transitioned into a homicide case, and authorities began a search for a person of interest. The Pine Bluff Police Department identified 25-year-old Thomaz Johnson as the suspect wanted in connection with the fatal shooting. A warrant for capital murder was issued for Johnson, who was described as a Black male, standing 5-feet, 10-inches tall, and weighing 160 pounds. His last known address was listed as 2317 Belair Drive. Authorities have cautioned that Johnson is to be considered armed and dangerous.
In the days following the shooting, the Pine Bluff Police Department offered a reward of up to $1,500 for any information that would lead to the whereabouts and subsequent arrest of Thomaz Johnson. The investigation also led to a related arrest. On Wednesday, September 24, 2025, the suspect's mother, Sparkle Bankston, was taken into custody. Bankston faces charges of hindering apprehension in connection to the ongoing homicide investigation. The public has been urged to contact the Pine Bluff Police Department with any information regarding Johnson's location.
