In the early morning hours of May 21, 2018, the life of Steven Holmes, a 39-year-old Black man, was tragically cut short in West Memphis, Arkansas. A father of four, Holmes was known for his goofy and loving personality, a man who had graduated from Malden High School in Missouri back in 1998 and was remembered fondly by his friends and family for the joy he brought into their lives.
His death would leave a profound void for those who knew him and a lingering sense of unresolved justice in the community.
The fatal encounter unfolded around 1 a.m. in the 400 block of South 13th Street. According to accounts from the scene, Holmes was involved in a heated exchange with another individual. The argument escalated tragically, culminating in gunfire. Holmes was shot, and the person suspected of firing the weapon was seen fleeing the area in a dark-colored SUV, disappearing into the night.
The West Memphis Police Department arrived to a scene of violence and loss. An investigation was launched immediately, and authorities appealed to the public for any information that could lead to the whereabouts of the person who had driven away. Crittenden County Crime Stoppers was designated as the contact for any potential tips, as detectives began the arduous process of piecing together the events that led to the shooting. Despite their efforts and the pleas for community assistance, the investigation has not yet led to a resolution. To this day, there have been no public announcements regarding an arrest, leaving the case unsolved and a family still waiting for answers.
