Arkansas roadway fatalities are down significantly compared to recent years, according to year-to-date data. As of July 29, 2026, preliminary reports indicate there have been 245 traffic fatalities statewide, compared to 292 at the same point in 2025 — a decrease of 47 deaths.
Proactive Enforcement Credited for Decline
Col. Mike Hagar, Director of the Arkansas State Police, credits proactive enforcement and increased visibility by ASP Troopers for the decline. “We have more motorists on Arkansas highways than ever before, and our population continues to grow,” Col. Hagar said. “Despite that, our troopers are driving fatal numbers down. That’s not a coincidence — that’s the result of hard work and a commitment to saving lives.”
The Arkansas State Police and the ASP Highway Safety Office have public service campaigns to reduce crashes and fatalities, including Click or Ticket It; Drive High, Get a DWI; Put the Phone Away or Pay; and Drive Aware, Walk Aware, Bike Aware – Save Lives.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
