Two Killed, Five Injured in Highway 18 Crash Near Lake City
LAKE CITY, AR – Two people died, and five were injured in a three-vehicle accident on Highway 18 east of the St. Francis River bridge Friday night.
According to an Arkansas State Police report, the crash occurred around 6:33 p.m. The fatalities include Brad King, 48, of Manila, and a minor, whose identity is withheld per State Police policy. The minor’s mother confirmed on social media that her son died at The Med in Memphis at 6:55 p.m. Sunday.
Injured in the incident was Kennedy Riggs, 18, of Blytheville, along with four other minors, identities undisclosed. Trooper Brian Merrill’s investigation revealed that King was driving a 2013 Ford eastbound on Highway 18 when he crossed the centerline, colliding head-on with Riggs’ westbound 2023 Volkswagen. A third vehicle, a 2014 Toyota, subsequently struck the Volkswagen from behind.
The crash blocked traffic in both directions for an extended period as first responders attended to the injured and cleared the roadway. The injured individuals were initially transported to Jonesboro hospitals.
Initial reports from Lake City Mayor Cameron Tate suggested that four fatalities and ten injuries had occurred. However, authorities later clarified the figures. Social media has seen an influx of posts requesting prayers and support for the Manila community following the tragedy.
The crash remains under investigation by Arkansas State Police.