JACKSONVILLE, AR — July 18, 2025 — A community is reeling, and a family is mourning after a tragic shooting at Dupree Park claimed the life of De’Andre Gooden, a Jacksonville resident. The Jacksonville Police Department is actively investigating the incident, which unfolded on the evening of Thursday, July 17, and is urging the public to come forward with any information that may help bring justice in this case.
The Incident: Shooting at Dupree Park
At approximately 6:32 p.m., police were dispatched to Dupree Park, located at 1700 South Redmond Road, after reports of gunfire near the park’s playground area. Dupree Park, often frequented by families and children, was thrown into chaos by the sound of gunshots, sending shockwaves through the peaceful summer evening.
While en route to the scene, responding officers came across a black passenger vehicle that had crashed at the intersection of West Main Street and T.P. White Drive — less than two miles from the park. Upon further investigation, officers discovered that the vehicle’s driver had suffered a gunshot wound related to the earlier park shooting.
The victim, identified Friday as De’Andre Gooden, was immediately transported to a nearby hospital. Tragically, despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries.
Investigation Ongoing: No Arrests, No Known Motive
As of Friday afternoon, no suspects have been identified or taken into custody. Police are working diligently to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and canvass the area for surveillance footage or other leads.
Authorities have not released any information about the shooter’s identity or a possible motive behind the attack. It remains unclear whether the shooting was targeted or random. Investigators have not confirmed whether De’Andre was alone at the time or if others were involved in the altercation.
Public Appeal for Information
The Jacksonville Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division is leading the inquiry and is urging anyone who may have seen or heard anything unusual near Dupree Park or along West Main Street around the time of the shooting to step forward.
“We are committed to finding out who is responsible for this senseless act of violence,” said a department spokesperson. “But we can’t do it alone. We need the eyes and ears of the community.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Criminal Investigations Division at 501-982-3191. Callers can remain anonymous.
Community Reaction: Shock, Sorrow, and Demands for Justice
News of De’Andre Gooden’s death has left the Jacksonville community stunned. Friends, family members, and neighbors have expressed heartbreak on social media, calling the 2025 Jacksonville High School graduate a “kind soul,” a “loyal friend,” and “someone who didn’t deserve this.”
“It hurts even more because it happened at a place where families bring their kids to play,” said a resident who lives near the park. “That park is supposed to be safe. Now, it’s a crime scene.”
Local faith leaders and community organizers have already begun planning a vigil in honor of De’Andre, calling for peace, accountability, and healing in the wake of another act of gun violence that has claimed a young life.
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What’s Next: A Commitment to Justice
As the investigation continues, police promise transparency and diligence. Updates will be released to the public as more information becomes available. Meanwhile, the Jacksonville Police Department remains focused on tracking down the individual or individuals responsible.
De’Andre Gooden’s family is now preparing for a funeral that should never have been necessary — one more young life cut short by violence. The community joins them in grief and resolve, hoping answers and justice come soon.
If you know anything, no matter how small, please come forward. De’Andre’s life mattered — and someone out there knows the truth.
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