Good morning, Fort Smith.

Inmate John Anthony Cole, 48, pleaded guilty on Friday to the attempted murder of Sebastian County deputies Deputy Jacob Mar and Lt. Brandon McCaslin during a cell check—he received a 200-year sentence along with a 40-year firearms charge while already serving a 31-year sentence for murder in Arizona and facing separate murder charges in Arkansas.

Fort Smith Escape Room invites local families and puzzle lovers to test their wits in themed challenges such as The Mortuary—where players must recover DNA evidence left behind by a killer.

Guests must book their room at least two hours in advance or drop by at 4201 Regions Park Dr. #12, where owner Monica Baber helps choose the right experience.

The Fort Smith Fire Department lost 217 years of experience in 2024 when many firefighters retired or resigned, Fire Chief Boyd Waters said during a May 27 study session—this drop shows the board’s concern over the loss of expertise.

Diana Lawrence—who moved to Arkansas to be near her grandchildren—announced her decision to run for the 3rd Congressional District seat against Representative Steven Womack.

She said her campaign will focus on improving government services for communities hit by industry loss and will build on her previous experience in Wisconsin.

On Friday, the Abilene Flying Bison scored nine runs in the first inning and beat the Fort Smith Marshals 12-2 in seven innings at Crowder Field — Ryan Beaty, Cooper Schneider, and Jose Acevedo helped drive the win as Landon Fuller earned the complete game.

Summer Smash Music Festival

5:30-11:59 p.m. — Majestic Fort Smith — Cost info not specified — Celebrate REHAB's 25th Anniversary with live music across genres hosted by Peter Dante.

The Hangout Summer Classic Pickleball Tournament

Jun 20-22 — The Hangout Fitness and Sports — Registration required — A competitive weekend for pickleball enthusiasts in Fort Smith.

Monster Truck Insanity Tour

7:30-9 p.m. — Harper Stadium — Ticket info available — Experience the thrill of monster trucks tearing up the arena.

On-Site Tour of Cornerstone Caregiving

9 AM - 7 PM — Cornerstone Caregiving — Free entry — Explore senior living excellence with gourmet meals and award-winning care.

Central Mall Card Show

10 a.m. - 7 p.m. (Jun 26) & 12 - 5 p.m. (Jun 27-29) — Central Mall — Free entry — Discover collectible cards and sports memorabilia at this exciting showcase.

Arkansas Junior Amateur Championship

June 30th - July 2nd — Hardscrabble Golf Course — Entry required ASGA membership — Compete in a 54-hole stroke play championship for junior golfers aged 12-18.