I-555 Fatal Accident Claims Life of Tyler Slayton and Jacob Ward

POINSETT COUNTY, Ark. — A fatal pedestrian collision occurred the evening of June 24, 2025, on northbound I‑555 near mile marker 23 in Trumann, Arkansas. The crash, which took place at approximately 7:20 p.m., claimed the lives of 36-year-old Tyler Slayton and 31-year-old Jacob Ward, both of Paragould.

According to the Arkansas State Police report, the two men had exited a 2010 Ford Fusion, which was parked on the shoulder, to attend to a flat tire on the driver’s side rear. As they worked on the vehicle, a 2010 Ford Focus traveling north on I‑555 struck both pedestrians.

Conditions at the time were clear with dry roads. No injuries to the driver of the second vehicle were reported. The bodies of the deceased were transported to Thompson Funeral Home. The crash remains under investigation by Trooper Joshua Landreth #144 of the Arkansas State Police.

Wrongful Death Lawyers Help Families Move Forward

At Ludwig Law Firm, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of Tyler Slayton and Jacob Ward. In Arkansas, wrongful death laws allow family members to pursue legal action when a loved one is killed due to another party’s negligence — including while assisting with a disabled vehicle.

Although Slayton and Ward took necessary precautions by pulling onto the shoulder, drivers on highways still have a duty to remain alert and avoid parked vehicles and pedestrians. If the investigation reveals distracted or reckless driving, the at-fault driver could be held liable in civil court.

Wrongful death claims in Arkansas may include compensation for medical costs, funeral expenses, and loss of companionship. Families should consult an experienced attorney to protect their rights and begin gathering essential evidence as early as possible.