In the heart of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, a dedicated officer's life was tragically cut short in the line of duty. Kevin Dwaine Collins, a 35-year-old male detective for the Pine Bluff Police Department, was known for his commitment to his community, a passion that ultimately led him to a fatal encounter on October 5, 2020. With five years of service under his belt and a commendation as the 2017 Officer of the Year for a heroic rescue from a fire, Collins was a respected member of the Violent
Crimes Unit.
On that Monday, just after midday, Detective Collins and his fellow officers were conducting an investigation that led them to the Econo Lodge on Blake Street. Their objective was to serve an arrest warrant on a man wanted for murder in Georgia. As they arrived, a hail of gunfire erupted, and Detective Collins was struck multiple times. Despite the immediate response and medical attention, his injuries proved fatal. Another detective was also wounded in the exchange but survived.
The ensuing manhunt for the suspect launched a multi-agency investigation, bringing in state and federal resources to assist the Pine Bluff Police Department. Two days after the shooting, law enforcement located and apprehended the primary suspect, Keshone Smith. The investigation revealed that Smith was the individual wanted on the out-of-state murder warrant. In the course of the investigation, another individual was also implicated and later faced federal charges.
The legal proceedings that followed brought a measure of closure to the grieving community and the family of Detective Collins. Keshone Smith was charged with capital murder. After a trial that was postponed multiple times, a jury found him guilty of first-degree murder. He was subsequently sentenced to 35 years in prison for the killing of Detective Collins. Another suspect connected to the incident received a 5-year sentence for federal gun charge violations. In a lasting tribute to his sacrifice, the Pine Bluff Police Department's training center was renamed in his honor, ensuring that the memory of Detective Kevin Collins and his dedicated service will not be forgotten.
