COLUMBUS, Ark. — Arkansas State Police (ASP) has launched an investigation after a Hempstead County deputy fatally shot 65-year-old Randy May in the 2900 block of Highway 73 on Thursday.
Authorities said they served a felony arrest warrant to May's residence around 8:52 p.m. when he answered the door "armed with a machete and charged deputies."
A witness said a deputy reacted by firing his gun, which killed May.
ASP Criminal Investigation Division agents will prepare an investigative file to be submitted to the Hempstead County Prosecuting Attorney, who will determine whether the use of deadly force by the sheriff's deputy was consistent with Arkansas laws.
This is an ongoing investigation. We will update this story with more information as it becomes available.