Franklin County, Ark. — Terrance Kiggins, 79, of Ozark, was discovered dead on Wednesday at a residence on Lower Jethro Road in the Jethro community, a rural area north of Ozark. The Arkansas State Police confirmed the death and immediately dispatched special agents to assist local law enforcement.
According to a news release from the Arkansas State Police, deputies responded to a 911 call reporting an unconscious individual at the home. When officers arrived, they found Mr. Kiggins unresponsive. Emergency responders attempted resuscitation, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators quickly learned that Mr. Kiggins’ son, J.M. Kiggins, 37, was present at the property at the time of the incident. The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, working in conjunction with Arkansas State Police, placed the son under arrest on suspicion of homicide. He was transported to the Franklin County Detention Center, where he remains in custody pending further legal proceedings.
The victim’s body was removed from the scene and sent to the Arkansas State Crime Lab for forensic examination. While the lab’s findings have not yet been released, authorities indicated that the investigation is ongoing and that they are reviewing all available evidence, including digital records and witness statements.
Franklin County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson John Doe (name placeholder per source) said, “We are treating this case with the utmost seriousness. Our priority is to determine exactly what happened and to bring any responsible parties to justice.” He added that the department will continue to cooperate fully with state investigators.
Community Reaction
The tragic loss of a senior member of the Ozark community has shocked neighbors and local churches. Residents gathered outside the home on Lower Jethro Road to offer prayers and support for the Kiggins family. Several community members expressed sorrow, emphasizing the need for compassion and healing during this difficult time.
Local clergy from nearby churches have offered counseling services to those affected. Pastor Mark Stevens of First Baptist Church in Ozark announced that a prayer vigil would be held at the church on Thursday evening, inviting anyone who knew Mr. Kiggins to attend.
Law‑Enforcement Process
Under Arkansas law, a homicide charge can be filed when there is probable cause to believe a person caused the death of another. The arrest of J.M. Kiggins follows standard procedure: he was read his Miranda rights, taken into custody, and booked at the county detention center. He will appear before a judge for an initial hearing, where bail considerations and any additional charges will be addressed.
Authorities have asked anyone with information about the incident to contact the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office or the Arkansas State Police. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the state’s crime‑tip hotline.
Next Steps
The investigation remains active. As forensic results become available, law‑enforcement officials expect to release further details about the circumstances surrounding Mr. Kiggins’ death. The community awaits answers while supporting the family through prayer and local outreach.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
