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Deputies Involved in Shooting Incident Identified by Washington County Sheriff’s Office

FAYETTEVILLE — The Washington County Sheriff’s Office has officially identified the two deputies involved in a recent shooting incident that took place in the early hours of Sunday. The deputies have been named as Cpl. Mason Bailey and Cpl. Seth Coker, both well-seasoned members of the Sheriff’s Office. Cpl. Bailey boasts an impressive record of over five years of service, while Cpl. Coker has dedicated nearly four years to the department, according to a news release from the Sheriff’s Office. Presently, the deputies are on administrative leave as the Arkansas State Police conducts an in-depth investigation into the shooting.

The incident unfolded on Sunday at approximately 3:18 a.m. when the two deputies were dispatched to address a reported domestic dispute at 11321 Jim Hall Road, situated near Prairie Grove. Upon their arrival at the scene, as the deputies cautiously approached the residence, they were confronted by a male individual subsequently identified as 46-year-old Ismael Fernandez. Startlingly, Fernandez brandished a handgun, directing it menacingly towards the deputies, leaving them with no choice but to respond with gunfire, striking the assailant at least once. Fortunately, neither of the deputies sustained any injuries during the encounter.

Providing an update on Fernandez’s condition, Cindy Murphy, the communications director for the State Police, confirmed on Monday that Fernandez had been shot twice, but his injuries were deemed to be non-life-threatening. The deputies immediately sprung into action, administering critical first aid to Fernandez until the arrival of a Central Emergency Services ambulance. Subsequently, Fernandez was promptly transported to Washington Regional Medical Center, where he is currently receiving medical treatment.

In a display of transparency and accountability, the Sheriff’s Office promptly requested the assistance of the Arkansas State Police to conduct a thorough investigation into the shooting incident. Concurrently, an internal review will also be conducted to ascertain whether the deputies adhered to the established protocols and procedures outlined by the Sheriff’s Office.

Highlighting the next steps in the investigation process, the State Police stated that upon the completion of their comprehensive investigation, the results will be handed over to the Washington County Prosecuting Attorneys Office. It will be the responsibility of the prosecuting attorney to assess whether the deputies’ use of deadly force aligns with the provisions outlined by Arkansas law, as stated in the State Police’s press release. However, Cindy Murphy emphasized that no specific timeframe has been set for the conclusion of the investigation, indicating the thoroughness and meticulousness with which the authorities will approach this matter.

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