Jefferson County, Arkansas – The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of a 74-year-old woman who was reported missing after deputies responded to a welfare check at a residence on Osage Road. Authorities say one person has been arrested as investigators continue working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the case.
On Wednesday, July 15, 2026, deputies were dispatched to a home located at 6001 Osage Road in Jefferson County to check on the well-being of Evelyn Creasy. Officials said Creasy lived at the residence with her boyfriend and caregiver, Michael Morrison.
When deputies arrived, Morrison came to the home during the welfare check. Investigators said deputies asked Morrison to allow them to speak with Creasy directly to confirm that she was safe.
According to the sheriff’s office, Morrison went inside the residence, reportedly to bring Creasy outside to speak with deputies. However, after a short period of time, he returned and told deputies that Creasy may have wandered away while he was away from the home.
Following that information, deputies immediately began searching the area around the residence in an effort to locate Creasy. At the same time, members of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division began examining the circumstances surrounding her disappearance and gathering evidence.
As the investigation continued, detectives determined that information collected during the investigation did not match statements provided by Morrison. Officials said evidence discovered at the scene raised additional concerns and led investigators to continue looking deeper into what happened.
During the course of the investigation, Creasy’s body was located. Authorities have since shifted the case from a missing person investigation to an active death investigation.
Morrison was taken into custody and transported to the W.C. “Dub” Brassell Adult Detention Center. He was booked on a charge of Abuse of a Corpse. Officials said additional charges could be filed as investigators continue reviewing evidence and building the case.
The sheriff’s office also reported troubling conditions at the residence where deputies responded. Officials described the conditions as deplorable, including numerous dogs that were reportedly living in poor conditions. Pine Bluff Animal Control is assisting with the animals found at the scene and helping address their needs.
Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains active and ongoing. Investigators continue processing evidence, conducting follow-up interviews, and working to establish a complete timeline of events leading to Creasy’s death.
The sheriff’s office has not released additional details about how Creasy died or whether investigators have determined a possible motive. Officials said more information may become available as the investigation progresses.
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Creasy’s next of kin has been notified of her death. The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office expressed condolences to her family and loved ones during what officials described as an extremely difficult time.
“The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office offers its sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Evelyn Creasy and asks that their privacy be respected during this difficult time.”
Authorities are continuing to ask the public for patience as they work through the evidence and complete the investigation. Updates will be provided when additional information can be released without affecting the ongoing case.
