Fatal Standoff in DeValls Bluff Clears Arkansas Police and U.S. Marshals
Arkansas State Police and U.S. Marshals have been exonerated following a fatal standoff with 32-year-old Darrell Esau from Little Rock in DeValls Bluff. The incident, which took place in July, ended with Esau’s death and law enforcement’s actions being deemed justified.
While the standoff lasted for several hours, it involved Esau barricading himself inside a home on East Walnut Street. Law enforcement officials, including a SWAT team, attempted to persuade him to surrender, but their efforts were in vain. During this confrontation, over 400 rounds of gunfire were exchanged between the parties involved, with Esau utilizing at least six different firearms.
It has been reported that Esau was sought on multiple felony warrants originating from Little Rock, Sherwood, and Pulaski County. These warrants included charges such as committing four counts of a terroristic act, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and first-degree battery. Local residents expressed distress over the fatal confrontation with police.
The Arkansas State Police found that the use of deadly force by law enforcement was “appropriate and reasonable” in the situation. This determination was made after a thorough investigation by the Prosecuting Attorney for the 17th Judicial District, Rebecca Reed McCoy.
