Lockesburg, Arkansas – A family dispute turned violent Friday in Sevier County, leaving one man hospitalized with a gunshot wound, two passengers injured in a crash, and his brother behind bars.
According to the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office, the chain of events began with a heated argument between two brothers, Justin and Robert Massengill, at a residence in the 1400 block of Provo Road near Lockesburg. The situation reportedly escalated quickly, ending in gunfire.
Authorities say deputies initially responded to a call about a gunshot victim on the 600 block of Provo Road, but moments later, 911 dispatch received another call — this time about a vehicle crash in the same area. When deputies arrived, they discovered that the two incidents were connected.
Investigators found that Justin Massengill, who had been shot during the altercation, was attempting to flee the scene in a vehicle when he crashed. The vehicle, which also carried an adult woman and a juvenile, then caught fire. Deputies confirmed all three passengers were injured in the crash. Justin was treated for a gunshot wound, while the woman and child were treated for injuries related to the crash.
Emergency crews transported the victims to nearby hospitals for treatment. Officials have not released their current conditions, but all are expected to recover.
“After investigators spoke with all parties involved, they determined that the incident stemmed from a domestic altercation between Justin and his brother, Robert Massengill,” authorities stated.
Further investigation revealed that Robert allegedly shot Justin during the argument, sparking the chain of events that followed. Robert was arrested at the scene without further incident. He is now facing multiple charges, including second-degree domestic battery and possession of a firearm by certain persons, a charge typically reserved for individuals prohibited from owning weapons due to previous convictions or legal restrictions.
The incident is still under active investigation, and law enforcement officials have not ruled out additional charges. The names of the injured passengers have not been released, and authorities have not confirmed the exact nature of their injuries.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that this was an isolated domestic incident, and there is no threat to the public at this time.
As the investigation continues, the community of Lockesburg remains stunned by the violence that erupted in what should have been the safety of home.
