CLEBURNE COUNTY, AR (October 20, 2025) — The Cleburne County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed an arrest in connection with a deadly shooting that occurred Monday evening in Ida, leaving Austin Cannon dead and his brother, Dustin Cannon, facing a First-Degree Murder charge.
According to Sheriff Chris Brown, Cleburne County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched around 7:07 p.m. to a residence in the 3000 block of Heber Springs Road North after receiving reports of a shooting.
Upon arrival, deputies made contact with Dustin Cannon, and discovered another male, later identified as Austin Cannon, deceased outside the home from apparent gunshot wounds. Deputies immediately secured the area and called for detectives to process the scene and begin a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Detectives spent several hours interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence, and consulting with the Prosecutor’s Office to determine the appropriate course of action. Following their investigation, 42-year-old Dustin Cannon of Ida was arrested and charged with one count of First-Degree Murder in connection with the death of Austin Cannon.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the motive or the events that led up to the fatal shooting, though the investigation remains ongoing. Sheriff Brown commended the responding deputies and investigators for their swift and professional response in handling what he described as a “deeply tragic and emotional incident.”
Dustin Cannon is currently being held at the Cleburne County Detention Center on a $1 million bond.
The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, and requested that the public allow the legal process to proceed without speculation.
“This was a very tragic situation for everyone involved,” said Sheriff Chris Brown. “Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones affected by this terrible event. We are committed to ensuring that justice is served.”
The investigation remains active, and anyone with additional information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Cleburne County Sheriff’s Office.
This heartbreaking event has left the small community of Ida reeling, as neighbors and friends mourn the loss of Austin Cannon and grapple with the pain of a family tragedy that has forever changed their lives.
