Tarlesha McPhearson, 47, was shot in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, after flagging down a car for a ride on August 2, 2025. She was riding as a passenger near West 12th Avenue and South Cypress Street when an unknown Black male, described as about mid-40s to 50s, fired a single shot into the driver’s side window. The bullet hit McPhearson in the face; the driver rushed her to a nearby hospital but she died of her injuries on August 18, 2025.

Pine Bluff police upgraded the case from first-degree battery to a homicide and say the driver gave them a description of the shooter. No arrests have been reported. Few additional details about motive or the suspect’s identity are available.

If anyone was in the area that evening or has information about the vehicle, the man described, or what led to the shooting, please contact the Pine Bluff Police Department.