Little Rock Local News

Little Rock high-speed chase ends in police charger ignition

Little Rock, Arkansas - A police pursuit in Little Rock culminated in a significant incident when a police charger ignited. The event involved an illicitly obtained Challenger and a recently graduated police officer. With velocities approaching 100mph amidst vehicular flow, it underscored the hazards associated with police duties. Remarkably, despite the ensuing collision involving two police chargers, there were no reported injuries. Authorities subsequently detained the individuals involved. The pursuit, especially through densely traveled zones, underscored the potential dangers of such endeavors. Following the chase, a thorough investigation led to the discovery of a firearm and the keys to the unlawfully acquired vehicle, showcasing...

Little Rock’s Clinton Presidential Center set for significant expansion

Little Rock, Arkansas - The Clinton Foundation has formally declared its intentions to substantially expand the Clinton Presidential Center, a notable establishment in Little Rock. This ambitious project will see the inauguration of the "Hillary Rodham Clinton Institute," designated to house Mrs. Clinton's individual archives and documents. Furthermore, this institute aims to function as a primary location for her philanthropic activities and advocacies. The announcement made on Tuesday emphasized the center's enhanced capacities post-expansion. It would augment its facility for exhibitions, be a convening ground for global dignitaries, and broaden educational initiatives. All the while, it continues to prioritize eco-friendly and...

Little Rock police seek assistance in locating missing 46-year-old man

Little Rock, Arkansas - The Little Rock Police Department has issued an appeal for information concerning a man reported missing. Carlos Mondragon-Mendoza, aged 46, was last seen in the southwest region of Little Rock on July 10, 2023. Mr. Mondragon-Mendoza is identified as a Hispanic male, standing at 5'5" with black hair and weighing approximately 160 lbs. Individuals possessing any information on his current location are requested to contact the Little Rock Communications Center directly at (501) 371-4829. Alternatively, Detective Dearing can be reached at (501) 404-3014 and Detective Boyd at (501) 404-3016. The department values and appreciates any assistance from the public...

Little Rock Police Department to host backpack drive this weekend

Little Rock, Arkansas - The Little Rock Police Department is organizing a backpack distribution event aimed at assisting families as they prepare for the upcoming academic year. This initiative will take place at the Arkansas State Fairgrounds, commencing at 10 a.m. this Sunday. It is imperative for children to be present in the vehicle to qualify for a backpack. The distribution is tailored to benefit students ranging from the first grade up to the 11th grade. For those interested in understanding the specific school supplies required, the Little Rock School District has uploaded comprehensive lists on their website, categorized by individual schools...

Tyson Foods announces closure of historic North Little Rock plant

North Little Rock, Arkansas - Tyson Foods, a prominent poultry processing firm in the United States, recently announced the closure of operations at multiple facilities. This includes the North Little Rock plant in Arkansas, a facility with a remarkable 55-year operational history. Set to close its doors on October 7, 2023, this action is an integral component of Tyson's plan to fortify its poultry business. The repercussions of this decision are expected to ripple through the workforce, the local community, and the broader poultry sector. The announcement regarding the North Little Rock plant's impending closure has elicited significant concern and...

New policy boosts police visibility in Little Rock neighborhoods

Little Rock, Arkansas - The Little Rock Police Department has revised its policy to permit patrol officers to bring home their police vehicles. This strategic change, endorsed by both the department's leadership and union representatives, aims to expand the force's reach and increase police visibility in local communities. According to LRPD Assistant Chief Troy Ellison, who is supervising the introduction of an updated fleet, "It's leaps and bounds on how it can benefit (a) neighborhood, knowing there's an officer right next door to them because there's a car there." Earlier this year, the Little Rock Board of Directors sanctioned over $3.57 million...

Four-week construction project scheduled to start next week in Little Rock, detour routes announced

Little Rock, Arkansas - A construction project slated to last four weeks is due to commence in Little Rock on Monday. The Public Works Department of the City of Little Rock has revealed that reconstruction efforts on North Rodney Parham Road, extending from Buff Lane to Pleasant Valley Drive, will kick off on Monday, August 7. During this period, drivers will be provided with two alternative detour routes. With respect to detour route option one: Traffic will be rerouted to Valley Club Circle via Pleasant Valley Drive, proceed south along Valley Club Circle, and then make a turn on Buff Lane to reach North...

Arkansas State Fair gears up for its 83rd edition with exciting promotions and concert lineup

Little Rock, Arkansas - The 83rd edition of the Arkansas State Fair is slated to return in October, with organizers initiating early preparations to facilitate smooth participation for all attendees. The State Fair management announced the commencement of the 'Fair Frenzy' promotion, as well as the main stage concert lineup in anticipation of this year's event. The 'Fair Frenzy' initiative offers attendees the opportunity to avail significant discounts on both admission tickets and ride bands. Early bird admission tickets are priced at $5, while ride bands can be purchased in advance for $30. This discount promotion will commence on August 1 and terminate...

Jury verdict favors employee in Little Rock wrongful termination case

Little Rock, Arkansas - The city of Little Rock has faced a significant setback as a Pulaski County jury ruled in favor of Roderick Keith King Hickman, a former employee of the Parks and Recreation department, in a landmark wrongful termination lawsuit. The jury determined that the city had infringed upon Hickman's civil rights, leading to his unwarranted dismissal. This verdict establishes a critical precedent, signifying a crucial turning point in the advocacy for employee rights and protection against discrimination. In this article, we will delve into the case specifics and evaluate the consequences of this profound triumph. Roderick Keith King Hickman,...

Rise in traffic fatalities in Little Rock highlights the need for enhanced enforcement measures

Little Rock, Arkansas - The American Automobile Association (AAA) characterizes the current season as the "100 deadliest days on the road," signifying an interval where more adolescents are at the steering wheel, thus raising the risk of fatal accidents. The police department in Little Rock has observed an alarming 43% spike in fatal automobile crashes compared to the previous year. The task of monitoring traffic patterns and deciding when drivers receive a green signal is a responsibility borne by William Henry, the Traffic Engineer Manager of Little Rock. He commented, "If you're driving above the speed limit, then you're going to...