Joseph David Middleton, 49, was shot and killed on August 18, 2024, at a residence on Private Road 3533 in Clarksville, Arkansas. The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office was called to the scene about 1:50 p.m., and the Arkansas State Police were asked to assist in the investigation.

Authorities arrested 22-year-old Mark Anthony Gonzalez of Johnson County in connection with Middleton’s death. Gonzalez was charged with First-Degree Murder and Delivery of a Controlled Substance and is being held at the Johnson County Detention Center. Reports say Gonzalez claimed he acted in self-defense, alleging Middleton had approached him with an axe.

Middleton was born February 18, 1975, in Clarksville and is survived by his wife Sarah Middleton, children, stepchildren, and other family. A funeral service was held August 28, 2024, at Hardwicke Funeral Home Chapel in Clarksville. Does anyone have information about the shooting or the events leading up to that afternoon?