Texarkana Records First Homicide of the Year: 21-Year-Old Man Killed in Overnight Shooting
Texarkana, Texas – In a tragic turn of events, the city of Texarkana has recorded its first homicide of the year following a fatal shooting that occurred just after midnight on May 10, 2025. The incident took place in the 1300 block of Carroll Street, leaving one young man dead and another individual injured.
According to the Texarkana Texas Police Department (TTPD), officers responded to reports of multiple gunshots in a residential neighborhood shortly after 12:00 a.m. When authorities arrived on the scene, they discovered two individuals inside a home that had been riddled with bullets.
Jaylen Betts, 21, was found deceased inside the residence. He had sustained fatal gunshot wounds believed to have been fired from outside the home. Despite the efforts of emergency responders, Betts was pronounced dead at the scene. A second victim, a 52-year-old man whose identity has not been released, suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
“It looks like the shooter—or shooters—fired several rounds into the house from the street before running off,” the TTPD said in a statement on Saturday. At this time, no arrests have been made, and investigators are working diligently to identify those responsible for the attack.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Detectives are canvassing the area for surveillance footage and speaking with neighbors in hopes of piecing together the circumstances that led to the gunfire.
This violent act has deeply unsettled the community, as residents grapple with the sudden loss of life and the frightening nature of the crime. “This is not something we’re used to seeing here,” one neighbor commented, asking to remain anonymous. “It’s scary knowing someone could just come by and shoot up a house like that.”
TTPD is asking for the public’s assistance as the investigation continues. Anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the area or who has any relevant information is encouraged to contact the Texarkana Texas Police Department or Crime Stoppers. Tips can be provided anonymously.
As the community mourns the loss of Jaylen Betts, a young life cut tragically short, city officials are stressing the importance of collaboration between law enforcement and residents to ensure safety and justice.
This case marks the first homicide of 2025 in Texarkana, a reminder of the pressing need to address gun violence and its ripple effects across neighborhoods.