Searcy, Arkansas – Two men have been arrested in connection with a 2019 murder that has remained under investigation for nearly six years. Justice Cunningham, 27, and Andre Smith, 26, both from Searcy, were arrested on April 10 and are each facing charges of capital murder in the death of Thomas Hunt.
The murder dates back to November 23, 2019, when officers were called to the intersection of Market and Moss Streets after a report of a shooting. Upon arrival, they discovered 41-year-old Thomas Hunt suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Hunt was quickly transported to Unity Health Emergency Room, but despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival.
After more than five years of investigation, the Searcy Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division, in collaboration with the 17th Judicial Drug Task Force, made the arrests of Cunningham and Smith. Lieutenant Todd Wells confirmed the arrests on Thursday, adding that the case remains under investigation.
“We are glad to have made progress on this case after such a long time,” Lieutenant Wells said in a statement. “However, this is still an ongoing investigation, and we are working diligently to gather all the necessary details.”
Cunningham and Smith’s arrests have brought some relief to Hunt’s family and the Searcy community, who have been awaiting justice for the unsolved crime. While the motive behind the shooting has not been disclosed, authorities are continuing to investigate all aspects of the case.
As the investigation unfolds, both suspects are facing serious charges, and more details may emerge in the coming weeks. The case serves as a reminder of the persistence and dedication of law enforcement officers who work tirelessly to bring justice to victims and their families, even when the passage of time makes such cases more challenging to solve.
