CONWAY, Ark. – A tragic shooting incident unfolded at 5th Avenue Park in Conway, Arkansas, on the evening of April 13, 2025, leaving two people dead and nine others injured. The Conway Police Department, along with other law enforcement agencies, is currently investigating the incident, which has shocked the local community.
According to reports, the shooting occurred around 5 p.m. at the popular park, a location frequented by families and children. Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos, with parkgoers fleeing in panic as gunfire erupted. Videos shared on social media captured the moments of terror as people ran for safety, highlighting the urgent need for police intervention.
The Conway Police Department confirmed that two victims succumbed to their injuries, while the remaining nine were transported to local hospitals where they are reported to be in stable condition. As of the latest updates, authorities have not released the names of the deceased or any information regarding potential suspects.
The police have urged the public to avoid the area surrounding the park as they continue their investigation. “The Conway Police Department, along with other law enforcement agencies, is currently investigating a shooting that occurred near 5th Avenue Park. We are asking the public to avoid the area while the investigation is ongoing. Further details will be released as they become available,” the department stated in a Facebook post.
This incident marks a significant moment for the community, raising concerns about safety in public spaces. Local residents expressed their shock and dismay over the violence, particularly in a place known for its family-friendly atmosphere. One witness recounted, “I was there. They started shooting right next to me. Two people are dead as of right now. There’s been, I think, four shot.”
Another witness shared their experience, stating, “There’s been a shootout this evening in Conway at one of the parks. We were out and saw the massive police response but were already home before we found out what happened. This makes me sick to my stomach. Pray for our city.”
As the investigation progresses, police are actively seeking information from the public to help identify any suspects involved in the shooting. They have encouraged anyone with details to contact the Criminal Investigation Division at 501-450-6130. “If the call is not answered, please leave a message and someone will return your call,” the department added.
This shooting is part of a disturbing trend of gun violence affecting communities across the nation, raising questions about public safety and the measures needed to prevent such tragedies in the future. Local leaders and residents alike are calling for increased dialogue and action to address the root causes of violence.
In the aftermath of the shooting, community members have come together, expressing their condolences to the victims' families and advocating for peace. A local resident remarked, “All of our parks are really nice family-friendly places. It’s heartbreaking to see something like this happen here.”
The Conway Police Department has assured the public that they are doing everything possible to investigate the shooting thoroughly and ensure that justice is served. They have also emphasized the importance of community cooperation in the ongoing investigation.
As this story develops, local news outlets and law enforcement agencies will continue to provide updates regarding the investigation and the condition of the injured victims. The community remains in shock as they come to terms with the violence that has disrupted their peaceful park.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of violence and the need for continued efforts to foster safer environments for families and individuals in public spaces.
For now, the Conway community is left to grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event, hoping for healing and safety in the days to come.
