Russellville, Arkansas – A routine traffic stop along Interstate 40 turned into a major narcotics bust on May 19, when Arkansas State Police discovered over 120 pounds of illegal drugs stashed inside a tractor-trailer. The seizure included 36 pounds of fentanyl and 86 pounds of cocaine—quantities that authorities say could have had devastating effects on communities across the region.
According to state police, the stop took place on I-40 eastbound near Russellville. Officers pulled over the tractor-trailer for a traffic violation and, during the course of the stop, developed probable cause to search the vehicle. What they found in the cab were four boxes—seemingly innocuous at first glance, but hiding a deadly cargo: 15 kilograms of fentanyl and 35 kilograms of cocaine.
The driver was identified as 56-year-old Claude Bell of California. Bell told officers he was making the long haul from Los Angeles to Memphis. Instead of reaching his destination, he was taken into custody and is now facing a staggering 42 felony charges—21 counts of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and 21 counts of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
The scale of the seizure stunned even veteran law enforcement officials.
“Removing over 36 pounds of fentanyl from our communities will save an untold number of lives. This seizure amounts to around 150,000 lethal doses taken off the streets,” said ASP Col. Mike Hagar. “Our top priority is protecting the lives of Arkansans. Seizures like this should serve as a warning to anyone transporting illicit narcotics along our interstates and highways. State Police will remain vigilant and committed to keeping the roads safe for law-abiding citizens.”
The bust is one of the largest in recent Arkansas State Police history and reflects growing concerns over the influx of fentanyl into the state and the broader U.S. The synthetic opioid is 50 times more potent than heroin and has fueled a nationwide surge in overdose deaths in recent years.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether Bell was acting alone or part of a larger trafficking operation, but the investigation remains ongoing. Federal agencies are expected to assist in determining the origin and intended destination of the drugs.
For now, state officials are emphasizing the victory as one that likely prevented numerous tragedies. As fentanyl continues to spread across the country at an alarming rate, law enforcement agencies are doubling down on efforts to intercept it—one highway stop at a time.
