Pine Bluff, Arkansas – The Pine Bluff Police Department has identified the off-duty officer involved in a high-speed crash into Sissy’s Log Cabin on Wednesday night, November 19. The incident occurred around 1:02 a.m., when a call was logged at the popular S. Camden Road establishment following an alarm triggered by the collision.
According to the Pine Bluff Police Department (PBPD), 25-year-old officer Xavier Higgins, who had been on the force since June 2024, was behind the wheel of the patrol unit that struck the building. Authorities confirmed that Higgins sustained only minor injuries in the crash. However, the incident caused substantial damage to Sissy’s Log Cabin, totaling approximately $500,000, and completely destroying the patrol vehicle involved.
Details of the crash were shared during a press conference held Thursday afternoon at 3:00 p.m. at the Joe Thomas Public Safety Building foyer. Police officials stated that Higgins was off-duty at the time of the crash and had contacted an on-duty supervisor shortly after the incident. Upon arrival, officers administered a breath test, which reportedly showed a .17 blood alcohol content, more than twice the legal limit of .08. Alcohol was also found in the back seat of the patrol unit, adding further concern over the circumstances of the crash.
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Investigators determined that Higgins was likely driving well over 100 miles per hour when the crash occurred. Authorities allege that he also failed to obey a stop sign prior to striking the building. In response to the incident, Higgins was terminated from the Pine Bluff Police Department and charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI), careless and prohibitive driving, and failure to obey a stop sign. A trial date has been scheduled for December 4, 2025.
The incident has reignited concerns over speeding in the area, which local business owners say is a persistent problem. William Jones, President of Sissy’s Log Cabin, noted that accidents on S. Camden Road are not uncommon. “Accidents happen in this area frequently,” Jones said. Across the street, Jeremy Stratton of Stratton Auto Repair also voiced concerns about speeding. “Very seldom are you going 40. I mean, even on the side street over here, they usually do 50, 55, and they don’t slow down no matter what,” Stratton explained.
PBPD officials also highlighted that Higgins was still on probation at the time of the incident, following a prior citation on June 17, 2025, for violating the department’s pursuit policy. The department has emphasized that this crash represents a serious breach of both legal and departmental standards, and that swift action was taken to address the officer’s misconduct.
The crash into Sissy’s Log Cabin not only caused significant financial damage but also raised safety concerns for residents and business owners in the area. While no severe injuries were reported, the high speed and apparent intoxication involved have drawn attention to the need for greater caution and accountability among law enforcement personnel.
Higgins’ termination and pending trial underscore the serious consequences for officers who violate laws and department policies. The PBPD continues to stress that maintaining public safety and trust requires adherence to strict standards, even for those serving within the department.
Authorities are urging local residents to remain vigilant while driving in areas known for speeding and heavy traffic, particularly during late-night hours. Business owners in the S. Camden Road corridor hope that increased awareness and enforcement will prevent future incidents, emphasizing that safety remains a top priority for the community.
As the legal process unfolds, Higgins will face charges that carry potential penalties under Arkansas law for DWI and other traffic violations. Meanwhile, the Pine Bluff Police Department has indicated it will continue internal reviews and policy assessments to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
The crash at Sissy’s Log Cabin serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by reckless driving and the importance of accountability, even among trained law enforcement officers. Residents, business owners, and local authorities alike are now closely watching how the case develops as Higgins’ trial approaches in early December.
