This story has been significantly updated
JONESBORO, Ark. – A shooting happened in the area of Melrose Street Monday afternoon in Jonesboro.
At about 1:13 PM, two victims were shot on Melrose in the Cedar Heights Apartments area. 911 calls poured in summoning authorities to the area.
Lavardius Booker, 23, of Jonesboro, was arrested at the scene. He remains in Craighead County Detention Center on a charge of first degree battery, a felony, Monday night.
A civilian video obtained by NEA Report showed the suspect being arrested at the scene just feet away from the victims. It all happened moments after the shooting took place. Witnesses can be heard referencing that the suspect and victims knew each other.
Warning – Graphic Content/Language Advisory
Note: The original video is much longer but primarily focuses on the most severely injured victim. Out of respect, we edited the video down to show only the moments of the arrest.
Late Monday, NEA Report inquired into the status of the victim. At last check, he was in serious but stable condition, said Sally Smith, JPD’s Public Information Specialist.
Melrose is a city street between Johnson Avenue and Belt Street, running through the Cedar Heights area. The concentrated area of apartments has been the location of numerous shootings this year, alone.
This map screenshot shows the location of several 911 calls reporting shots heard.
How are they only charging him with Battery – 1st degree instead of attempted murder.