The El Dorado Police Department is still investigating a shooting that lead to the death of a 17 year-old El Dorado High School student days before he was to start his senior year of high school.
“I really thought this was one we’d be able to get done quickly,” said Lt. Chris Lutman, public information officer for the El Dorado Police Department, remorse in his voice as he explained that the investigation has not moved far since last week.
Octavius Critton Jr. was killed on Aug. 11 in a fatal shooting that took place in the area of California Street and Detroit Avenue. EPD officers responded late that evening to reports of a shooting on Detroit Ave.
Juston A. Mayweather, 22, was found injured at the residence. Mayweather directed police to Octavius’ location at 1204 California Street, where he was found unresponsive and pronounced dead at the scene.
Lutman said Friday that the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory had returned their preliminary results from Octavius’ autopsy. They confirmed that his death was a result of the gunshot wounds he sustained.
“They confirmed it was a homicide,” Lutman said.
He said the EPD also has forensic ballistic data from the crime scene, including the types of weapons used and where they were purchased.
However, witness cooperation has slowed since the murder first occurred.
“There are people out there who know exactly what happened because several people were there that night,” Lutman said. “For whatever reason, they’re choosing not to come forward. … People have got to do the right thing with the information they have.”
Lutman said without witness’ help, the EPD will have to move to a more forensics-based investigation. Forensic investigations can involve using physical evidence, including fingerprints, blood, computer hard drives and other technology to determine how a crime took place.
“This is where we put the boots on the ground,” he said.
Octavius’ killing is believed to be related to a social media beef. At a vigil for the young man held last week, city officials, religious leaders and his classmates all said how much they missed him and how this sort of violence does not belong in El Dorado.
“He lived right around the corner,” said Octavius’ cousin Kevmesha Green. “I feel like my neighborhood isn’t safe anymore.”
EPD detectives are searching for more information about Octavius’ death. Anyone with information should call 870-881-4810. The El Dorado Crime Stoppers are offering a $2,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the person or people responsible for his death.
Caitlan Butler can be reached at 870-862-6611 or [email protected].