North Little Rock, Arkansas – Authorities have announced that 14-year-old Brentian Baker has been charged as an adult in connection with the shooting death of 50-year-old Robert Mathis. The tragic incident, which has shocked the North Little Rock community, underscores the growing concern about youth involvement in violent crime.
According to the North Little Rock Police Department, officers were dispatched to the 300 block of East Bethany Road on the night of September 1, 2025, following reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers found Robert Mathis suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency medical personnel immediately transported him to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries despite life-saving efforts.
Investigators quickly began piecing together the events that led to the shooting. After weeks of investigation, including interviews, evidence analysis, and community tips, detectives identified 14-year-old Brentian Baker as a suspect in the case. Police allege that the shooting occurred during an aggravated robbery, which escalated into deadly violence.
On October 14, 2025, authorities took Baker into custody without incident. He has since been formally charged with capital murder and aggravated robbery — both serious offenses under Arkansas law. Due to the nature of the crimes, prosecutors have decided to charge Baker as an adult, a decision that reflects the gravity of the allegations and the devastating impact on the victim’s family and community.
Baker is currently being held without bond at the Pulaski County Regional Detention Facility as he awaits his first court appearance. If convicted, he could face severe penalties, including life imprisonment.
The North Little Rock Police Department expressed condolences to the Mathis family, stating that the department remains committed to seeking justice. “This was a senseless act of violence that took the life of an innocent man,” said one department spokesperson. “Our hearts go out to the victim’s family, and we will continue to pursue justice with diligence and compassion.”
Neighbors in the East Bethany Road area described Mathis as a hardworking and friendly man who was well-known and respected in the community. His sudden and violent death has left many shaken and calling for stronger community efforts to prevent youth from turning to crime.
Community advocates have since spoken out about the need for mentorship programs, youth outreach, and gun violence prevention efforts, particularly as more juveniles become entangled in violent situations. “We’re losing too many young people to the streets,” one local pastor said. “And we’re losing too many innocent lives in the process. It’s time to come together as a community and stop this cycle.”
As the investigation continues, authorities have not released further details about what led to the robbery or whether additional suspects are being sought. The case remains under active investigation by North Little Rock Police detectives.
The tragic death of Robert Mathis and the arrest of a 14-year-old charged with his murder serve as a heartbreaking reminder of the consequences of violence — not just for victims and their families, but for the young lives forever changed by their decisions.
Anyone with additional information about the case is urged to contact the North Little Rock Police Department Detective Division or submit anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers.
