Rural, AR (January 17, 2026) – Emergency crews responded after a fatal pedestrian crash occurred along I-555 northbound near mile marker 30 in Poinsett County. Medics and fire crews worked to assist the individual who had been struck in the roadway and sustained fatal injuries.
The deadly incident occurred around 5:43 a.m. on January 15, involving a 2003 Dodge Ram traveling northbound on I-555. According to initial reports, the pedestrian, identified as 29-year-old Jared H. Smith of Trumann, was standing in a lane of traffic as a result of a previous crash when he was hit by the approaching pickup truck. Weather and road conditions at the time were reported to be clear and dry.
Sadly, Smith was pronounced dead at the scene. His body was later transported to Emerson Funeral Home. No other injuries were reported, and the driver of the Dodge Ram remained at the scene following the collision.
Arkansas State Police are continuing to investigate the sequence of events that led to this tragedy. Officials have not released additional details about the earlier crash that may have left Smith stranded in the roadway.
Our thoughts go out to Jared Smith’s family and friends during this extremely difficult time.
