Gunfire Rocks Romine Street: Police Lock Down Little Rock Neighborhood Amid Investigation
LITTLE ROCK, AR — May 29, 2025
A heavy police presence descended upon a residential neighborhood in Little Rock Friday afternoon as officers responded to reports of a shooting along Romine Street, sparking an ongoing investigation that has left the area cordoned off and residents on edge.
According to preliminary information from the Little Rock Police Department (LRPD), officers were dispatched to the scene just after 1:00 p.m. following multiple emergency calls reporting gunfire in the area. When authorities arrived, they located at least one individual with injuries believed to be caused by a firearm. The identity of the victim and the severity of their injuries have not yet been released.
As of this afternoon, the section of Romine Street near the 8700 block remains completely blocked off with crime scene tape as officers canvas the area, searching for evidence and speaking with witnesses. Law enforcement officials are urging the public to avoid the vicinity while the investigation is active.
Community in Shock
The sudden eruption of violence in what many consider a quiet and family-oriented area of Little Rock has rattled local residents. Witnesses reported hearing a series of rapid gunshots, followed by screams and the sound of sirens.
“I was in my kitchen when I heard what sounded like five or six pops, back to back,” said Michelle Turner, a resident who lives just a few houses away from the scene. “Then I saw people running, and a few minutes later, police were everywhere. It’s terrifying.”
Several blocks have been shut down to both vehicular and foot traffic, as detectives from the department’s Violent Crimes Division begin processing the scene.
“We are in the very early stages of our investigation,” said LRPD spokesperson Lt. Cassandra Brown. “Our priority right now is to determine exactly what happened, locate any involved individuals, and ensure the safety of nearby residents. We are asking anyone with information, or who may have seen anything suspicious in the area this afternoon, to come forward.”
Victim Transported to Hospital
Police confirmed that at least one person was transported to a local hospital, though their condition has not been officially disclosed. It remains unclear whether the shooting was targeted or random, and authorities have not yet stated whether any suspects have been detained.
Sources close to the investigation say the shooting may have involved a dispute between individuals known to each other, but law enforcement has not publicly confirmed a motive.
Neighbors say Romine Street, located just west of University Avenue and not far from several schools and small businesses, has seen a rise in concerning activity in recent months.
“There’s been more police around here lately,” said resident Jermaine Phillips. “It’s a good neighborhood, but things have been changing. We just want to feel safe again.”
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
Police are continuing to process evidence at the scene, including shell casings, surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses, and eyewitness accounts. Drones were reportedly deployed overhead to assist in the investigation from an aerial perspective.
As of 4:00 p.m., the LRPD had not announced any arrests, and no suspect description has been made available to the public. Authorities are expected to release more information as it becomes available.
The department has urged anyone with tips to call LRPD’s tip line at (501) 371-INFO or submit information anonymously through Crimestoppers.
Increased Patrols and Community Response
In response to the shooting, the LRPD has announced that additional patrol units will be dispatched in the surrounding area throughout the weekend as a precaution. Local leaders are also expected to meet with community members in the coming days to address safety concerns and provide updates on the investigation.
“Our hearts go out to the individuals impacted by today’s violence,” said Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr. in a brief statement. “This type of violence is unacceptable, and we are committed to deploying every resource necessary to bring those responsible to justice and restore a sense of safety for our residents.”
As the situation continues to unfold, residents are advised to stay informed through official LRPD updates and avoid the Romine Street area until further notice.
This is a developing story, and more details will be added as they become available.