Brother and sister shot to death; one in custody

JONESBORO, Ark. – Two siblings in their late 30s were found murdered in an apartment Thursday morning in Jonesboro. They were shot to death the night before. A suspect is being held in the double homicide investigation.

At 8:08 AM Thursday, the Jonesboro Police Department were called to the 400-block of Melrose Street working a double homicide. Police were called to the scene at 8:08 AM on Thursday, according to JPD’s Information Specialist Sally Smith. She had just arrived when a reporter spoke with her at 8:15 AM. It was already evident to police two murders had taken place. The press release later in the day would detail why: both were shot to death.

The two deceased individuals were: Kafena Russell, 38, and Johnny Russell, 37. Both were found dead in an apartment.

 

At 4 PM Thursday, more information was released including the announcement that JPD had arrested a suspect in connection to the double homicide that occurred Wednesday evening on Melrose Street in north Jonesboro. He is currently in custody and is being held at the Craighead County Detention Center awaiting his probable cause hearing.

Approximately 8 a.m. Thursday morning, officers with the Jonesboro Police Department were dispatched to the 400-block of Melrose in reference to a subject finding two deceased inside of a residence. Upon arrival, an officer was directed to an apartment where he discovered two victims. CID was called to the scene to begin their investigation.

Witnesses stated to investigators that around 11 p.m. Wednesday night, they heard what sounded like gunshots in the area. Dispatch did not receive any phone calls during that time.

Upon further investigation, 37 year old, Kafena Russell and her 38 year old brother, Johnny Russell suffered from apparent gunshot wounds. They were pronounced dead at the scene. Their remains have been sent to the State Crime Lab.

A suspect is in custody at this time. The investigation is still ongoing.

JPD released what is apparently a photo of the suspect in hand-cuffs. The photo doesn’t show his face. His name will be released at the probable cause hearing, according to police.

A GoFundMe fundraiser has been set up by what appears to be family of the victims. A sibling who made the page said neither had insurance.