Speaking on behalf of the City of Dumas, I would like to commend our entire police department, EMS, firefighters, Delta Memorial Hospital Staff, Arkansas State Police and all of the additional law enforcement, and emergency response agencies and individuals that assisted during Saturday’s (March 19,2022) unfortunate incident. We are grateful for the united effort of support from our neighbors in southeast Arkansas and beyond. The situation was quickly and appropriately handled preventing additional problems. I also commend the citizens that assisted the wounded and injured. Positive action is a worthy human resource.
There was loss of life and several injuries. Our concerns and prayers are with the injured and the many families that became victims of a thoughtless action. Dumas appreciates all concern, acts of kindness, and encouragement from persons across the state, and past residents and friends from out of state.
This incident is by no means representative of the City of Dumas. We are a hard-working and proud community that works daily to improve itself. We shall not allow this to ruin the positivity and unity of our community with events. This 16th year community event and many others have occurred in Dumas and no incident of this type has every occurred. Unfortunately, a senseless shooting turned a constructive event into a tragic, totally unexpected, and shocking one for our city.
We are not perfect; but we are strong. Together we will cope with this encounter of life, continue to grow, and build our city one day at a time. We are #DumasStrong.
Counseling services are available for everyone:
For Immediate Help–If you need extra support during this time, you can call 1-800-273-8255 or text “HOME” to 741741 to speak with a crisis counselor for free.
Street Mentors of Dumas (SMOD) and the Hood-Nic Foundation will host a support session for youth on April 9 at 3:00 p.m. with support from mental health professionals. Parents and guardians may register their children at www.deltaneyo.com or www.hoodnic.com. More information will be forthcoming as it is finalized.
Also, citizens may contact Purple WINGS Counseling Services, Chulyndria Laye, M.S., LAC at 479-765-0448 for information on scheduling virtual counseling sessions for themselves or family members.
