Tragic Mass Shooting at Conway’s Fifth Avenue Park Claims Two Lives, Including Tatayana Penister; Nine Others Injured as Authorities Investigate Suspect Edgar Peralta
CONWAY, AR — April 13, 2025
A vibrant evening of community connection turned to chaos and heartbreak in Conway, Arkansas, when gunfire shattered the peace at Fifth Avenue Park on Sunday night. The mass shooting, which occurred during a well-attended local gathering, left two people dead and nine others injured, marking one of the most devastating acts of violence in the city’s recent history.
Among the deceased was Tatayana Penister, a young woman whose warmth and generosity left a lasting impact on those who knew her. Friends described her as “full of life” and “always smiling,” a compassionate spirit who brought light to everyone around her. The second victim has not yet been publicly identified, as authorities work to notify next of kin.
Emergency calls reporting gunfire came in just after 9:00 p.m., prompting a rapid response from the Conway Police Department. Officers arrived to find a chaotic scene, with victims lying on the ground and others fleeing in panic. First responders immediately began administering medical aid, and ambulances transported the wounded to nearby hospitals. As of Monday morning, several victims remain in critical condition, while others are recovering under close observation.
After an intense overnight investigation, police confirmed the identity of the suspect as Edgar Peralta, a local resident with a prior criminal history. Sources within law enforcement revealed that Peralta had previously been arrested in connection to an incident involving one of the victims, though details remain limited. One key detail emerged suggesting that the individuals involved may have shared financial or personal ties: the victim had reportedly been using an insurance broker associated with Peralta.
Investigators are now probing whether disputes over financial dealings, personal relationships, or other motives may have contributed to the shooting. While police have not officially confirmed a motive, early findings suggest the attack may have been targeted rather than random.
Authorities are currently analyzing surveillance footage from nearby buildings and reviewing cell phone videos recorded by witnesses during the event. Detectives are urging anyone with additional footage, photos, or first-hand accounts to come forward.
“This was not just a crime against individuals—it was a crime against our community,” said Chief William Tapley of the Conway Police Department. “We are working around the clock to ensure justice is served and that the families of those impacted receive answers. This tragedy will not be forgotten, and those responsible will be held accountable.”
In the aftermath, the community has come together in grief and solidarity. A makeshift memorial now lines the sidewalk near the park, with candles, flowers, and hand-written messages paying tribute to Tatayana and the others affected. Local churches and advocacy groups have already begun organizing vigils and support sessions for grieving families.
City leaders have vowed to address the larger issue of gun violence in public spaces, with calls for improved security and mental health resources growing louder. “We cannot allow our parks, our gathering places, our sense of safety to be stolen from us,” said Mayor Tabitha Russell in a Monday morning press conference.
As the investigation continues, Peralta remains in custody. Formal charges are expected to be announced in the coming days. Authorities are also working to determine if any additional individuals were involved or if the suspect acted alone.
For now, the community of Conway mourns and waits—seeking comfort, justice, and an end to the senseless violence that has shaken the heart of the city.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Conway Crime Stoppers at (501) 450-6130 or reach out to the Conway Police Department. Even the smallest detail, officials say, could be critical to the ongoing case.
Tragic Mass Shooting at Conway’s Fifth Avenue Park Claims Two Lives, Including Tatayana Penister; Nine Others Injured as Authorities Investigate Suspect Edgar Peralta
CONWAY, AR — April 13, 2025
A vibrant evening of community connection turned to chaos and heartbreak in Conway, Arkansas, when gunfire shattered the peace at Fifth Avenue Park on Sunday night. The mass shooting, which occurred during a well-attended local gathering, left two people dead and nine others injured, marking one of the most devastating acts of violence in the city’s recent history.
Among the deceased was Tatayana Penister, a young woman whose warmth and generosity left a lasting impact on those who knew her. Friends described her as “full of life” and “always smiling,” a compassionate spirit who brought light to everyone around her. The second victim has not yet been publicly identified, as authorities work to notify next of kin.
Emergency calls reporting gunfire came in just after 9:00 p.m., prompting a rapid response from the Conway Police Department. Officers arrived to find a chaotic scene, with victims lying on the ground and others fleeing in panic. First responders immediately began administering medical aid, and ambulances transported the wounded to nearby hospitals. As of Monday morning, several victims remain in critical condition, while others are recovering under close observation.
After an intense overnight investigation, police confirmed the identity of the suspect as Edgar Peralta, a local resident with a prior criminal history. Sources within law enforcement revealed that Peralta had previously been arrested in connection to an incident involving one of the victims, though details remain limited. One key detail emerged suggesting that the individuals involved may have shared financial or personal ties: the victim had reportedly been using an insurance broker associated with Peralta.
Investigators are now probing whether disputes over financial dealings, personal relationships, or other motives may have contributed to the shooting. While police have not officially confirmed a motive, early findings suggest the attack may have been targeted rather than random.
Authorities are currently analyzing surveillance footage from nearby buildings and reviewing cell phone videos recorded by witnesses during the event. Detectives are urging anyone with additional footage, photos, or first-hand accounts to come forward.
“This was not just a crime against individuals—it was a crime against our community,” said Chief William Tapley of the Conway Police Department. “We are working around the clock to ensure justice is served and that the families of those impacted receive answers. This tragedy will not be forgotten, and those responsible will be held accountable.”
In the aftermath, the community has come together in grief and solidarity. A makeshift memorial now lines the sidewalk near the park, with candles, flowers, and hand-written messages paying tribute to Tatayana and the others affected. Local churches and advocacy groups have already begun organizing vigils and support sessions for grieving families.
City leaders have vowed to address the larger issue of gun violence in public spaces, with calls for improved security and mental health resources growing louder. “We cannot allow our parks, our gathering places, our sense of safety to be stolen from us,” said Mayor Tabitha Russell in a Monday morning press conference.
As the investigation continues, Peralta remains in custody. Formal charges are expected to be announced in the coming days. Authorities are also working to determine if any additional individuals were involved or if the suspect acted alone.
For now, the community of Conway mourns and waits—seeking comfort, justice, and an end to the senseless violence that has shaken the heart of the city.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Conway Crime Stoppers at (501) 450-6130 or reach out to the Conway Police Department. Even the smallest detail, officials say, could be critical to the ongoing case.