PARAGOULD, Ark. — Tragedy struck Friday afternoon on Highway 412 West in Greene County, claiming the lives of Sherry Felty, 52, of Paragould; Duane Smith Jr., 40, of Jonesboro; and Christine Sta Ana, 31, of Jonesboro, and leaving Bruce Owens, 49, of Paragould, and a juvenile passenger critically injured. According to Greene County Sheriff Brad Snyder, emergency crews were dispatched to the scene around 4:44 p.m., just west of County Road 718, after reports of a severe multi-vehicle collision involving two passenger cars and a tractor-trailer. One of the vehicles ignited in flames following the impact.
First responders described a chaotic and devastating scene as firefighters, paramedics, and law enforcement officers worked tirelessly to rescue victims and contain the blaze. Two of the injured were airlifted from the site in critical condition, underscoring the severity of the crash.
On Saturday, the Arkansas State Police released their official fatal crash report, confirming the loss of three lives and detailing the events that led to the horrific collision on U.S. Highway 412 in rural Greene County.
According to the preliminary summary, a 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe, driven by Bruce Owens, was traveling westbound behind a 2025 Freightliner tractor-trailer. At the same time, a 2020 Jeep Renegade, carrying Duane Smith Jr. and Christine Sta Ana, was traveling eastbound in the inside lane.
Investigators stated that the Hyundai Santa Fe attempted to pass the Freightliner, crossing the center turn lane into oncoming traffic. As the vehicle moved back across the eastbound lanes, the front of the Hyundai collided head-on with the Jeep Renegade. The force of the impact was catastrophic, resulting in significant damage to both vehicles. The Freightliner, unable to avoid the aftermath, struck debris scattered across the roadway.
The crash claimed the lives of Sherry Felty, a passenger in the Hyundai Santa Fe; Duane Smith Jr., and Christine Sta Ana, both occupants of the Jeep Renegade. The driver, Bruce Owens, and a juvenile passenger in the Jeep sustained serious injuries and were immediately transported to Arkansas Methodist Medical Center (AMMC) and Regional One Health for emergency treatment.
Authorities confirmed that the weather was clear and the roadway was dry at the time of the crash, ruling out weather-related factors as a cause. The investigation, led by Cpl. Benjamin Rapert of the Arkansas State Police, continues as officials work to determine the exact circumstances that led to the tragic incident.
Following the collision, Felty’s body was transported to McNabb Funeral Home in Paragould for arrangements. The devastating loss of three lives has left the community mourning deeply, as friends, family, and neighbors come together to remember those who were taken far too soon.
The scene along Highway 412 stood as a somber reminder of how quickly tragedy can unfold. In the wake of this heartbreaking event, local authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution, patience, and focus on the road—hoping to prevent future loss and ensure the safety of all who travel Arkansas highways.
May Sherry Felty, Duane Smith Jr., and Christine Sta Ana rest in eternal peace, and may comfort and healing be granted to all those affected by this tragic event.
