On June 16, 2018, the body of 19-year-old Charles Alden Niederbrach Jr., known as 'Charlie,' was discovered near an old bridge approximately five miles from Interstate 30 in Gurdon, Arkansas. His body was found on the bed of Terre Noire Creek near Bateman Road in Clark County. Charlie had been residing in Gurdon for the past three years, having moved from Fremont, California. Born on December 20, 1999, in Hayward, California, he was the son of Charles Niederbrach Sr. and Wanda Tucker.
Charlie was an active and outgoing individual who enjoyed outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, swimming, and boating. He was also a dedicated pet owner, spending considerable time training and bonding with his dog, Chyna. His family described him as a 'big kid at heart,' cherished by his nieces and nephews.
Following the discovery of Charlie's body, the Clark County Sheriff's Office, in collaboration with the Arkansas State Police and the Arkadelphia/Clark County SWAT team, initiated an investigation into his death. On July 5, 2018, authorities arrested 19-year-old Bryson Deaton of Gurdon, charging him with capital murder in connection with Charlie's death. Deaton was held without bond following his arrest.
The investigation revealed that Charlie had been shot multiple times. However, details regarding the motive behind the murder and the relationship between Charlie and Deaton were not immediately disclosed by law enforcement.
Charlie's family expressed profound grief over his untimely death, emphasizing his vibrant personality and the positive impact he had on those around him. They described him as an amazing person who touched many lives from California to Arkansas.
The case drew significant media attention, highlighting the tragic loss of a young life and the subsequent arrest of a local resident. As of the latest available information, the investigation had concluded with the arrest of Deaton, and no further suspects were reported.
