In the winter of 2024, the life of a young man from Little Rock, Arkansas, was tragically cut short. Justin Kyle Heavrin Jr., a seventeen-year-old male, was fatally shot on the evening of Saturday, January 27th. The incident that led to his untimely death unfolded outside a residence in the 10000 block of Hilaro Springs Road. Authorities were called to the scene where they discovered Heavrin suffering from a gunshot wound.
He was quickly transported to a local hospital for medical attention, but tragically, he succumbed to his injuries.
The investigation into the shooting swiftly pointed to a suspect. The Pulaski County Sheriff's Office identified eighteen-year-old Juan Ruiz as the individual involved in the disturbance that escalated to gunfire. During the altercation, Ruiz shot Heavrin and then fled the scene. A search for Ruiz ensued, and he was taken into custody by law enforcement. Following his arrest, Juan Ruiz was charged with capital murder in connection with the death of Justin Heavrin Jr. He is currently being held at the Pulaski County Regional Detention Facility without bond.
Justin, born on October 11, 2006, was a senior at Woodland Hills Christian Academy and was looking forward to his graduation in May 2024. Remembered for his adventurous and kind spirit, he was known as someone who was always willing to help others. His interests included fishing, working on cars, and collecting flags. His sudden and violent death has left a profound void in the lives of his family and friends.
