On October 15, 2021, at approximately 8:00 PM, authorities responded to a residence at 206 Jocelyn Street in Gould, Arkansas, following a report from the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office. Inside the home, they discovered the body of 36-year-old Vintrael Allen McKinzie, who had suffered fatal gunshot wounds. Investigators believe the shooting occurred late in the afternoon or early evening on that day.
In the aftermath of the discovery, the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division initiated a homicide investigation. A suspect was questioned late on the night of October 15, 2021; however, no arrest was made at that time. The Lincoln County prosecuting attorney was scheduled to review the case file to determine whether an arrest warrant should be issued.
The investigation into McKinzie's death continued for several months. On May 26, 2022, the Arkansas State Police announced the arrest of 33-year-old Natoya C. Green in connection with the homicide. Green was charged with first-degree murder and taken into custody in Dumas, Arkansas, before being transported to the Lincoln County jail.
The arrest of Green marked a significant development in the case, providing McKinzie's family with a sense of closure. Prior to the arrest, family members had expressed frustration over the lack of progress in the investigation and had been seeking answers regarding McKinzie's death.
The case highlights the challenges law enforcement agencies face in investigating homicides, particularly in smaller communities. The collaboration between local authorities and the Arkansas State Police was crucial in bringing the investigation to a resolution. The arrest of Green underscores the importance of thorough investigative work and the role of the community in supporting law enforcement efforts.
