A tragic shooting at Dupree Park in Jacksonville, Arkansas, has left the community shaken and a family grieving the loss of De’Andre Gooden, a local resident. The Jacksonville Police Department is actively investigating the incident, which occurred on the evening of Thursday, July 17, 2025, and is calling on the public for assistance in bringing those responsible to justice.
**The Incident: Chaos at Dupree Park
At approximately 6:30 p.m., Jacksonville police received reports of gunfire at Dupree Park, located at 1700 South Redmond Road, near the playground area. The park, a popular gathering spot for families and children, was disrupted by the sudden outbreak of violence, shattering the calm of a summer evening.
As officers responded to the scene, they encountered a black passenger vehicle that had crashed at the intersection of West Main Street and T.P. White Drive, roughly two miles from the park. Upon investigation, police determined that the driver had been shot during the incident at Dupree Park. The victim, identified as De’Andre Gooden of Jacksonville, was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries.
**Investigation Underway: No Suspects or Motive Yet
As of Friday, July 18, 2025, the Jacksonville Police Department has not identified any suspects or made any arrests in connection with the shooting. Investigators are working tirelessly to collect evidence, interview potential witnesses, and review any available surveillance footage from the park and surrounding areas.
Authorities have not disclosed whether the shooting was a targeted attack or a random act of violence, and no motive has been established. It remains unclear whether Gooden was alone at the time of the incident or if others were involved in the events leading up to the shooting.
**Community Urged to Assist
The Jacksonville Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division is leading the ongoing investigation and is appealing to the public for help. Authorities are asking anyone who was in the vicinity of Dupree Park or the intersection of West Main Street and T.P. White Drive around 6:30 p.m. on July 17 to come forward with any information, no matter how small it may seem.
“This was a senseless act of violence that has left a family and a community in pain,” said a spokesperson for the Jacksonville Police Department. “We are determined to find answers, but we need the public’s help to piece together what happened.”
Individuals with information are encouraged to contact the Criminal Investigations Division at (501) 982-3191. Anonymous tips are welcome, and all leads will be thoroughly investigated.
**A Community in Grief
The loss of De’Andre Gooden has left a profound impact on Jacksonville, a tight-knit community unaccustomed to such violence in its public spaces. As the investigation continues, residents are left grappling with questions and a renewed focus on safety in their cherished community spaces.
The Jacksonville Police Department has vowed to provide updates as the investigation progresses and is committed to ensuring justice for De’Andre Gooden and his loved ones.
