HOPE, Ark. — A quiet early morning in the city of Hope was shattered by violence on January 8, 2026, when Dashawn L. Compton, 26, of Washington, Arkansas, was tragically killed in a shooting that has left a family grieving and a community searching for answers. Authorities confirmed that Jacolby C. Martin, 28, of Hope, Arkansas, has been arrested and charged with Second-Degree Murder in connection with Dashawn’s death.
According to the Hope Police Department, officers were dispatched at approximately 4:30 a.m. to the 600 block of North Cedar Street after receiving reports of shots fired at a person. When officers arrived, they entered a residence and found a male victim lying on the ground inside the home with an apparent gunshot wound.
Emergency Medical Services were immediately called to the scene and attempted lifesaving measures. Despite their efforts, Dashawn Compton was pronounced deceased at the scene, marking another devastating loss of a young life to gun violence. His identity was initially withheld to allow authorities time to notify his family, a process that underscored the gravity and heartbreak of the situation.
As the investigation continued, police formally identified the victim as Dashawn L. Compton. Further investigative work led detectives to Jacolby C. Martin, who was taken into custody early in the case and later formally charged with Murder in the Second Degree. Police confirmed that one person of interest was detained during the initial stages of the investigation and subsequently charged as the case developed.
At this time, authorities have not released details regarding what led up to the shooting or a possible motive, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. Detectives continue to conduct interviews, collect evidence, and reconstruct the events that unfolded inside the residence during those early morning hours.
Once the investigation is complete, police said a full case file will be forwarded to the 8th North Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review and any further legal action deemed appropriate. Officials emphasized that the case remains active and that additional information will be shared as it becomes available.
Beyond the investigation, the loss of Dashawn Compton has deeply impacted the Hope community. At just 26 years old, Dashawn’s life was cut short, leaving behind loved ones now burdened with grief, unanswered questions, and memories that will forever hold a place in their hearts. Friends and family remember him not for the violence that ended his life, but for the person he was and the future he should have had.
A photo of the suspect, Jacolby C. Martin, has been released by authorities as part of the ongoing case.
As Hope mourns, residents are once again confronted with the lasting consequences of gun violence. The community continues to extend thoughts, prayers, and condolences to the Compton family during this unimaginably difficult time.
May Dashawn L. Compton rest in peace, and may his memory live on through those who loved him.
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