Third suspect arrested, additional charges filed in Fort Smith shooting that critically injured woman

A third arrest has been made following a late-night shooting that left a 32-year-old woman critically wounded on Sunday, June 15. Fort Smith Police responded to a shots-fired call at approximately 11:06 p.m. in the 4700 block of Zero Street.

When officers arrived, they found the woman suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. A 33-year-old man, who had dialed 911, was also at the scene alongside a vehicle riddled with bullet holes on its passenger side.

Following an overnight investigation, authorities identified two parolees==36-year-old Anthony Don Nichols and 27-year-old Austin Lee Williams—as suspects. By 10 a.m. Monday, the Fort Smith Police Department's SWAT team executed a search warrant in the 1500 block of South 17th Street, taking both men into custody without incident.

Williams faces charges of Battery in the First Degree – Firearm (Class B Felony) and Felon in Possession of a Firearm (Class D Felony). His criminal history includes a 2021 conviction for simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms, multiple drug distribution charges, and parole violations in 2024 and 2025.

Nichols faces the same felony charges, along with unrelated drug offenses. He also has a documented criminal history in Sebastian County. In June 2025, he was arrested for theft of property under $1,000, and in January 2023, he was booked as a fugitive from justice on out-of-state warrants.

Also arrested was 21-year-old Katie Scarlett Magness, charged with Hindering Apprehension (Class C Felony). Magness has a recent record that includes possession of controlled substances, DWI (drugs), endangering the welfare of a minor, and contempt of court.

Police expressed gratitude to the public and local media for their support and patience, as well as to the Sebastian County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for their assistance.

The investigation remains active. Further updates will be released as appropriate.