October 16th, 2025

            Newton County Sheriff Glenn Wheeler said his office received a BOLO (Be On the Lookout) from Harrison Police Department on the evening of Tuesday, October 14th, 2025 in reference to an armed and suicidal man. The bulletin said that Daniel Sparkman, aged 44, had left a residence in Harrison with a firearm and medications and had stated he was suicidal.

            A while later, Sparkman called Newton County 911 and told dispatchers he was parking his car and going into the woods to commit suicide. He again told dispatchers he had taken several pills and was also armed with a .45 caliber handgun. Dispatchers were able to give a location from which the call originated as being on Gene Rush Wildlife Management Area near Carver.

            Newton County Sheriff's Office personnel, Jasper Police Department and 14th Judicial District Drug Task Force responded to the scene and located the vehicle, which was empty. Sparkman was not located in an immediate search of the area.

Sheriff Wheeler then requested the assistance of Harrison Police Department with their thermal drone to attempt to locate Mr. Sparkman. Boone County Sheriff's Office, Arkansas State Police and Arkansas Game and Fish Commission also responded to assist in locating him. Tracking dogs were also used and Mr. Sparkman was found deceased approximately 200 yards from the road.

Sheriff Wheeler said, "This is a sad end to a tragic and possibly dangerous situation. I appreciate the help and professionalism of all the agencies and personnel who responded. The way we all work together in this area is inspirational." Wheeler went on to say. "My heart goes out to Daniel's family and loved ones."