John David Barfield, a 52-year-old former Major League Baseball pitcher, was fatally shot on December 24, 2016, in Little Rock, Arkansas. Barfield, a left-handed pitcher who played for the Texas Rangers from 1989 to 1991, was involved in a dispute with 59-year-old William Goodman, an acquaintance and the estranged husband of Barfield's girlfriend, Mystic Goodman. The altercation occurred at Barfield's apartment in downtown Little Rock, where Goodman shot Barfield during the confrontation.
Following the incident, William Goodman was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. However, during the trial, the jury concluded that the killing was reckless but not deliberate, leading to a conviction of manslaughter. On August 10, 2017, Goodman was sentenced to 25 years in prison, with 10 years for manslaughter and an additional 15 years for firearm enhancement, to be served consecutively.
Barfield's death was met with shock and mourning from family, friends, and former teammates. His sister, Debra Hudson, described him as having 'the kindest heart of any human I had ever known,' highlighting his caring nature and willingness to engage with fans.
