In the quiet community of Dover, Arkansas, the life of Ronald Dean Esser Jr., a 42-year-old White/Caucasian male, was abruptly ended on March 17, 2017. The incident that led to his death unfolded on Oak Meadows Road, near State Highway 164, where he was fatally shot. When authorities arrived at the scene, Esser was pronounced dead.
The investigation into the shooting quickly led to a suspect. Nineteen-year-old Nathaniel Z. Symonds was arrested in connection with the death of Esser.
Investigators believe that the two were acquaintances, though further details about the nature of their relationship and the circumstances that led to the fatal shooting were not extensively reported. The case brought attention to the issue of gun violence within the local community.
Following the investigation, Symonds was charged with first-degree murder for his alleged role in Esser's death. He was subsequently held at the Pope County Detention Center. In the wake of the tragedy, memorials and tributes were organized to honor the memory of Ronald Dean Esser Jr., as the community grappled with the violent loss.
