Fort Smith teen arrested in connection with convenience store murder

UPDATE: Fort Smith Police announced they will be hosting a press conference at 12 p.m. Friday related to the special operation and investigation.

FORT SMITH, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Fort Smith police arrested a 15-year-old boy after a SWAT operation in the 9800 block of Mayo Drive on May 4 in connection to an aggravated robbery that occurred in Barling on December 12, 2022.

The suspect with a ski mask entered a convenience store in Barling at the 1700 block of Fort Street and placed a bag on the counter demanding it be filled with vape pens. While the clerk collected the pens, another customer entered the store and the suspect fled.

He returned a few minutes later without the ski mask and asked if he could pay for the vape pens. The clerk was on the phone with 911 but told the suspect he could, according to the post.

As the suspect returned to the store, he grabbed a few vape pens and exited the store.

According to police, the investigation is ongoing with more information to come at an appropriate time.

This is a developing story. Stay with KNWA/FOX24 for updates.