In the late hours of a Sunday night in Texarkana, Arkansas, the life of 19-year-old Gary Nichols was tragically cut short. On August 24, 2025, multiple 911 calls flooded the Texarkana Arkansas Police Department, reporting a shooting at the Ridge Apartments located at 701 N. Oats Street. When officers arrived at the scene just after 11:00 p.m., they found a harrowing sight: Gary Nichols, a young male, lay outside with a gunshot wound as several bystanders desperately tried to render aid.
The officers immediately took over life-saving efforts until LifeNet EMS could arrive. Despite the valiant attempts of both the bystanders and the first responders, Nichols succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The sudden and violent nature of his death sent ripples of shock and grief through the community. Detectives and crime scene investigators were promptly called in to piece together the events that led to the fatal shooting.
The investigation moved swiftly, and a suspect was quickly identified. Later that same night, authorities took 21-year-old Xavian Banks into custody. Banks was subsequently charged with Murder in the 2nd Degree and is being held at the Miller County Jail. While an arrest has been made, the police have stated that the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about the crime is encouraged to contact the Texarkana Arkansas Police Department's Criminal Investigation Division.
Gary Nichols, born on January 4, 2006, was remembered as a loving father, son, brother, and uncle with a heart of gold. He had a passion for music and sports and was known for his willingness to be there for everyone and help those in need. He had confessed his love for Christ and was a faithful member of the College Hill Baptist Church. His untimely death has left a void in the lives of his family and friends, who now cherish his memory.
