On December 30, 2022, a tragic incident unfolded at Lark Place Apartments in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, resulting in the deaths of 24-year-old Quartez 'Dada' Burton and 16-year-old Ayden Hendricks. The Arkadelphia Police Department received a 911 call reporting a robbery and multiple gunshots at the apartment complex. Upon arrival, officers discovered Hendricks deceased in the parking lot.
Shortly thereafter, another call alerted them to Burton, who had been transported to Baptist Health Medical Center-Arkadelphia, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Investigations revealed that both Burton and Hendricks were involved in an attempted robbery at the apartment complex. During the robbery, they were shot by a resident, Chase Langstaff, who claimed self-defense. Langstaff reported that he was inside his apartment when he heard noises and, upon investigating, encountered the masked individuals exiting his neighbor's apartment. Believing they were armed and posing a threat, he fired multiple shots, resulting in their deaths.
Following the incident, several arrests were made. On January 14, 2023, 19-year-old Chase Browning was arrested on two counts of first-degree murder, and his mother, Laroyce Browning, was charged with hindering apprehension. Additionally, individuals involved in the robbery, including 18-year-old Javion Sims and 17-year-old Joffrey Kaden, were arrested and faced charges of aggravated robbery and aggravated residential burglary.
In November 2024, Langstaff stood trial for the shootings. He was found guilty of second-degree murder in the death of Hendricks but was acquitted in the death of Burton. The jury sentenced Langstaff to six years in prison, the minimum for second-degree murder, with eligibility for parole after 18 months. Langstaff's defense argued that he acted in self-defense during the attempted robbery, while prosecutors contended that the use of deadly force was not justified as the victims were shot in the back while fleeing.
The deaths of Burton and Hendricks underscore the complexities of self-defense claims and the tragic outcomes that can result from criminal activities. The case has had a profound impact on the Arkadelphia community, highlighting the need for continued dialogue on issues of violence and justice.
