Benton County prosecutor comments on decision to clear officer of wrongdoing in fatal shooting

Benton County Prosecutor Clears Officer in Fatal Shooting

Benton County Prosecuting Attorney Josh Robinson recently announced his decision to clear Bentonville Police Officer Omri-Andrew Nutt of any wrongdoing in a fatal shooting that occurred on July 11. The incident took place on Southwest Castlewood Street when Nutt responded to an assault call.

According to the investigation, Nutt shot and killed Nathaniel Crabtree, 37, who was reportedly assaulting two women outside their homes. The officer had a reasonable belief that Crabtree would use deadly force against him, leading to the decision to use lethal force. Crabtree was transported to a nearby hospital but succumbed to his injuries.

The Arkansas State Police conducted the investigation, and their findings were presented to Prosecutor Robinson. Officer Nutt, who began his tenure with the Bentonville Police Department in January 2022, was not injured during the incident. Neighbors provided testimonies about the incident.

Prosecutor Robinson’s decision to clear the officer was based on the evidence gathered during the investigation. No further details have been released at this time, and the case is now considered closed.