On November 23, 2020, 14-year-old Klancy Alan 'Newt' Hodge tragically lost his life in a hunting accident near Hartford, Arkansas. Newt and his older brother, Kasey Hodge, had successfully hunted a deer and were in the process of loading it into their truck. During this time, a firearm that had been leaned against the vehicle accidentally fell and discharged. The bullet struck Newt in the back, causing fatal injuries, and also injured Kasey in the shoulder. Despite immediate medical attention, Newt was pronounced dead at the hospital, while Kasey underwent surgery and was expected to recover.
The incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. on Cedar Creek Road, a rural area near Hartford. Arkansas Game and Fish Commission spokesperson Keith Stephens described the event as a tragic accident, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of such incidents. He noted that the brothers had no intention of causing harm when the firearm fell and discharged.
In the aftermath of the accident, the community rallied to honor Newt's memory. A rodeo event was organized in Natural Dam, Arkansas, on December 4 and 5, 2020, with all proceeds directed to the Hodge family to assist with expenses. Friends and family described Newt as a dedicated cowboy who was deeply involved in ranch work and rodeo activities, often participating in events such as roping bulls and team roping.
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission conducted an investigation into the incident, which was concluded to be an accidental discharge of the firearm. No arrests were made, and no suspects were identified, as the event was determined to be a tragic accident.
