A suspect has been arrested in connection with the murder of Johnston Unit Corrections Officer Charles Beckham, who was killed during a home burglary early Thursday morning.
According to a statement from Bowie County Sheriff Jeff Neal, Officer Beckham returned to his DeKalb residence and encountered a burglar, later identified as Clyde Allen Stephens II, 34, of Higginson, Arkansas. Stephens allegedly shot Beckham multiple times outside the home, then attempted to cover up the crime by setting Beckham’s body and his truck on fire.
Hours later, a woman visiting Beckham’s residence discovered the scene. She was also shot by the suspect, who then fled in her vehicle, according to the sheriff.
Stephens was later apprehended by law enforcement in Searcy, Arkansas, while driving the stolen car. He currently faces charges of theft and fleeing in Arkansas. Once those charges are addressed, Stephens will be extradited to Bowie County to face a charge of capital murder.
The investigation is ongoing, and no further details have been released at this time.
