Deputy James Clarence Harper, 44, was killed in the line of duty on April 24, 1997, while responding to a gunshot complaint in Poinsett County, Arkansas. Harper, who had served about three years with the Poinsett County Sheriff’s Office, encountered a vehicle linked to the call on Arkansas 75 just south of Marked Tree. During a struggle with the subject he was shot in the head and sustained a fatal wound.

A second deputy arrived shortly afterward and saw the suspect standing over Harper’s body. That deputy was then shot in the shoulder and stomach before the gunman fled. A manhunt ended when the suspect was found dead inside an abandoned house after state troopers closed in. Harper is survived by his wife and four children.

If anyone remembers the events around Marked Tree on April 24, 1997, or has information about the shooting, please share what is known.