13-year-old arrested in killing of 17-year-old Canyon Jones in North Little Rock

Pulaski County authorities said a 13-year-old has been arrested in the killing of 17-year-old Canyon Jones, who was shot June 23 at the Fairfax Crossing Apartments near North Little Rock.

The Pulaski County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest and said the juvenile suspect is being held at the county juvenile detention center. The sheriff's office provided the custody information to the news outlet; investigators did not provide additional case details in the report.

The arrest and shooting were described to a local television crew by family members and neighbors. "I immediately grabbed my keys," said Jasmine, identified in the report as Jones's aunt, describing how she rushed to the scene after learning of the shooting. Jasmine asked for prayers as the family mourned and said of her nephew, "He was a sweet boy. Like he was an amazing kid. My sister really did a good job."

Walter Crockerin, director of Arkansas Stop the Violence, said he was stunned by the age of the alleged shooter. "I work with youth, but that's very disturbing when a 13-year-old will get that angry where they'll kill another teenager," Crockerin said, adding that the moment highlights the need for parents to talk with their children and to know who they are with.

The report relays community concern about youth violence and an appeal for closer parental oversight. Family members and a local violence-prevention leader emphasized guidance at home as part of efforts to prevent similar incidents.

The family planned a balloon release that night to honor Jones. Officials did not provide additional public details about the investigation, including any motive or charges; the sheriff's office said the suspect is in juvenile detention and the case remains under investigation.