Madiline and Henry Cotton Killed in Highway 16 crash in Van Buren County
A head-on collision on Highway 28 in Waldron, Arkansas left two men dead on July 25, 2025. Learn how Arkansas wrongful death law works, who can file a claim, and what steps families should take. Call 501-838-4043.
ARKANSAS ACCIDENT NEWS
RURAL VAN BUREN, ArkâClinton couple killed in Highway 16 crash
On August 17, 2025 at 1:15 p.m., Arkansas State Police responded to a fatal two-vehicle crash on State Highway 16 near Crabtree in rural Van Buren County.
According to investigators, a 2023 Chevrolet traveling east on Highway 16 crossed the double yellow line and collided with a 2008 Dodge traveling west.
Fatalities:
Madiline M. Cotton, 90, of Clinton, driver of the Dodge.
Henry E. Cotton, 94, of Clinton, passenger in the Dodge.
Injured:
John Albert Jenkins, 78, of Clinton, driver of the Chevrolet.
Mary Jean Jenkins, 74, of Clinton, passenger in the Chevrolet.
Both injured parties were taken to Baptist Hospital. The victimsâ bodies were held at Ozark View Clinton.
Weather was clear, and the roadway was dry at the time of the crash.
Note: Arkansas State Police fatal crash summaries reflect initial findings and may be revised as investigations continue.
Arkansas wrongful death law: Rights of families
Under Ark. Code Ann. § 16-62-102, a personal representative or statutory beneficiaries may file a wrongful death claim. Families typically have three years from the date of death to pursue compensation for funeral costs, lost support, and the emotional toll of losing a loved one. A survival action under Ark. Code Ann. § 16-62-101 may also allow recovery of damages such as medical bills and conscious pain experienced before death.
Investigating rural highway crashes
Collisions on Arkansasâs rural highways often involve lane departures and limited visibility. Critical evidence includes scene photographs, vehicle damage assessments, skid mark measurements, and eyewitness statements. Prompt investigation can help establish liability and preserve evidence for legal claims.
Arkansas wrongful death attorneys serving Van Buren County
At Ludwig Law Firm, we prepare every case as though it will be tried in court. In catastrophic crashes, we also coordinate with trusted colleagues like Harry Warden of Warden Law Firm, combining strong trial advocacy with compassionate client service.
Internal links: Ludwig Wrongful Death, Ludwig Home. Partner cross-link: Warden Law Firm and the matching Warden blog post.
What families should do after a fatal Arkansas crash
Contact a wrongful death attorney promptly.
Collect funeral and medical expense records.
Preserve photos, eyewitness information, and accident reports.
Avoid giving recorded insurance statements without legal guidance.
Ask your lawyer to obtain and preserve crash scene data.
Our Wrongful Death Lawyers Can Help
If your family has suffered a wrongful death in Arkansas, call 501-838-4043 or visit ludwiglawfirm.com. We fight for full accountability after tragic accidents.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Reading this blog or interacting with Ludwig Law Firm through this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every legal case is different, and you should not act or rely on any information in this blog without first consulting with a licensed attorney about your specific situation. For legal guidance tailored to your needs, please contact Ludwig Law Firm directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Who can bring a wrongful death claim in Arkansas?
A. Usually the personal representative or statutory beneficiaries named by law.
Q. How long do families have to file?
A. Three years from the date of death, unless an exception applies.
Q. What damages are available?
A. Funeral expenses, lost financial support, companionship, and survival damages for medical costs and pain.
