On July 2, 2015, concern began to mount for Michael Scott Roberts, a 40-year-old white male, when he failed to answer his phone. Family members, unable to reach him, went to his home on Garland Street in Texarkana, Arkansas, to check on him. What they discovered was a scene of violence; Roberts, a well-known local pilot who flew charter flights, was found deceased inside his residence, having been shot multiple times.
The Texarkana Arkansas Police Department was called to the scene and
immediately began treating the case as a homicide. An investigation was launched, and Roberts' body was sent to the Arkansas State Crime Lab for an autopsy. In the days following the discovery, police worked diligently to develop suspect information, assuring the public that they were conducting a thorough investigation. Despite their efforts, authorities stated that no further information could be released at the time. The initial 911 call that led to the discovery of Roberts' body was reportedly for a possible suicide, but the evidence at the scene quickly shifted the focus of the investigation to murder.
In the years that have passed since Michael Scott Roberts's death, his case has remained the only unsolved homicide in Texarkana, Arkansas. The investigation has seen assistance from the FBI and a retired Texas Ranger who consulted on the case. Detectives have followed up on numerous leads and tips, believing that the key to solving the crime lies within the local community. Law enforcement has emphasized that this was not a random act of violence. Over the years, new detectives have been assigned to review the evidence and witness statements, demonstrating a continued commitment to resolving the case.
Despite the persistent investigation and the passage of time, no arrests have been made, and no suspects have been publicly identified. The Roberts family has expressed their frustration with the lack of progress and communication from authorities. In an effort to generate new leads, a reward of over $11,000 has been offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for Roberts's murder. This reward includes contributions from family, friends, and Crime Stoppers. Law enforcement continues to urge anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to come forward and help bring closure to the family of Michael Scott Roberts.
