PINE BLUFF, Ark. — Shortly after 2:00 a.m. on August 30, the Pine Bluff Police Department responded to a home on Hillcroft St. for a reported shooting that involved a father and son— one of whom was a well-known person in the community.
Upon arrival, officers found that two males had been shot, former director of the Pine Bluff Urban Renewal Agency 43-year-old Maurice Taggart, and his son 26-year-old Justice Taggart.
Both victims were transported to a local hospital for treatment, where Maurice reportedly died from his injuries, and Justice is in stable condition.
According to witnesses, the homicide began as a domestic disturbance during which both Taggarts were fighting over a pistol, which ended in them shooting each other.
Not only was Maurice the former director of the Urban Renewal Agency in Pine Bluff, but he was also facing charges related to accusations of forgery and stolen money.
Although he faced legal woes, many have been remembering him for what he accomplished for the city of Pine Bluff.
"One thing I can say is that he was one of those hardest working people I've known when it comes to getting something done and he saw me as someone who wanted to be in the foxhole with to do that so the many projects and boards to the served on he'll be missed," Ryan Watley said.
Pine Bluff Mayor Shirley Washington also released the following statement in response to the situation, "This is a tragic time as we process the loss of Maurice Taggart, The City of Pine Bluff offers our deepest condolences to his family and friends, we should be respectful of the impact his loss is having on their lives during this difficult period, we ask that everyone lift them up in their thoughts and prayers."