Homicide Probe Intensifies Following Discovery of Corpse by Arkansas River in Van Buren
Authorities in Van Buren, Arkansas are conducting a homicide investigation after a body was found along the Arkansas River. Learn more about the ongoi
The Van Buren Police Department is currently looking into a homicide after a body was found on Friday afternoon near the Arkansas River.
Derek Marshall
On November 14, 2025, around 5:00 p.m., officers responded to the southern end of Lee Creek Drive following a report from an individual who discovered a body close to the river’s edge. Upon their arrival, authorities retrieved the remains of 30-year-old Derek Marshall from Muskogee, Oklahoma. Investigators quickly assessed that the situation surrounding his death was suspicious, leading them to treat the case as a homicide.
Authorities are encouraging anyone with potential information to contact investigators at 479-471-5057.
In a subsequent announcement, the department mentioned a second call they received at roughly 5:11 p.m. that evening, reporting another body found along the river close to the southern end of Lee Creek Road. Investigators indicated that they cannot yet disclose the identity of this person, only stating that the deceased is not Justin Baker. The notification to the next of kin is still in process.
Officials state that both locations are involved in an ongoing, active investigation. Detectives are persistently examining evidence, following up on leads, and interviewing individuals as they endeavor to understand what transpired and if the cases are linked.
The Van Buren Police Department is urging the community to stay alert and reach out with any details that could assist in advancing the investigative efforts.
