EUREKA SPRINGS — The Arkansas State Police have ruled a Eureka Springs officer-involved shooting as justified, according to the Arkansas 19th Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney.
On March 1, 2024, a person died following an officer-involved shooting in Eureka Springs.
The Arkansas State Police investigated the shooting and presented their findings to the Prosecuting Attorney.
The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office ruled that the use of deadly force by the officer was justified under the circumstances and that criminal charges need not be filed against the officer.
In a press release, the Arkansas State Police (ASP) said they investigated a shooting in which a member of the ESPD fired at an individual who pulled out a gun in their confrontation and earlier brandished a handgun in an incident that night.
According to the ASP, the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) got a call about a 36-year-old man named Christopher Vanschoick who flashed a gun during a disturbance at the Rowdy Beaver Den in Eureka Springs. Two officers with the ESPD went to the scene to investigate.
Vanschoick was in his car on the street next to the Rowdy Beaver Den when the ESPD officers confronted him. A struggle soon followed, and Vanschoick eventually pulled out a handgun. One of the officers then fired his weapon and hit Vanschoick. He was later pronounced dead at the Carroll County Coroner’s office.
Vanschoick’s body was sent to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory (ASCL).
