Benton residents react to pair of attempted murder arrests just hours apart
BENTON, Ark. – Many people in Benton were shocked Saturday when they learned the news that their hometown had seen two incidents that ended with authorities saying attempted murder charges would be filed, even though the incidents are not believed to be connected.
Longtime Benton resident Tamme Adams said she believes local investigators will find the answers to the questions locals have.
“I’ve lived here my whole life, and I’ve taught school here for 36 years,” Adams said. “I’ve always felt safe in this community, and I have a lot of faith in our law enforcement.”
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At 6:45 p.m. Friday, officers with the Benton Police Department responded to a private property crash involving several juveniles at the Benton Home Depot.
Officers said the juveniles hit an unoccupied vehicle. While they were taking statements, the officers reported that the owner of the unoccupied vehicle struck the juvenile driver with their car. The juvenile was taken to an area hospital.
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The driver, later identified as 24-year-old Daisha McCuin of Benton, was arrested by officers who said she faces multiple charges including first-degree attempted murder, four counts of aggravated assault, first-degree battery, endangering the welfare of a minor and reckless driving.
Officers then responded to another call just after midnight at the Circle K convenience store off North Highway 5. Upon arrival, officers said they found an 85-year-old man who had been run over by a vehicle. He was transported to a nearby hospital.
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Authorities said that following an investigation, officers arrested 32-year-old Brittany Johnson of Hot Springs. Investigators said Johnson faces charges of attempted capital murder, aggravated robbery, theft of property and terroristic threatening.
For Benton residents waking up to the news of two violent acts overnight, the news was shocking and not what they expect from their hometown.
“I think it’s crazy that they both happened,” Kamden Stewart said. “You never hear of this in a small town like Benton.”
Officials with the Benton Police Department said the initial investigations into both cases indicate the incidents were separate and not connected.
Still, community members are thinking of two of their neighbors who are now hospitalized with serious injuries.
“It’s horrible, horrible,” Adams said. “Certainly, two vulnerable people, a young person and then an elderly person, absolutely thoughts and prayer.”
The investigations into both incidents are ongoing, and anyone with information concerning either case is asked to contact Benton Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division at 501-776-5947. People can also send anonymous tips to 847411 with the keyword “BENTONPD” plus the tip message.
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