On New Year's Day in Fort Smith, Arkansas, 47-year-old Deevelyn Lynn Bell, a white female, died from a gunshot wound. The events that unfolded on January 1, 2026, concluded a life that began in Fort Worth, Texas. Known to her loved ones as Lynn, she was a mother and grandmother who was described as a loving and caring individual with a fiery protective nature for her family.
The Fort Smith Police Department was called to a residence on the 2800 block of Independence Street around 4:30
p.m. following a report of a disturbance. A caller informed authorities they heard a loud bang during a fight inside the home. Upon arrival, officers were met with a locked bedroom door. After forcing entry, they discovered the bodies of Deevelyn Bell and 49-year-old Mark Bell, both of whom had sustained fatal gunshot wounds.
Investigators at the scene recovered a handgun and, based on the evidence, have stated that they believe Mark and Deevelyn Bell were the only individuals involved in the incident. While the investigation is officially ongoing, authorities have assured the public that they consider this to be an isolated event with no further risk to the community. The bodies were sent to the Arkansas State Crime Lab for autopsy to officially determine the cause of death.
Deevelyn was a stay-at-home wife and mother who enjoyed making crafts with her granddaughters. She was remembered by her family for her supportive nature and her willingness to help any child in need. A funeral service was held on January 9th at the Brotherton Funeral Home Chapel in Charleston, with burial at Oak Hill Memorial Cemetery in Booneville. She was preceded in death by her husband, Mark Bell, II.
