HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – The Hot Springs Police Department on Wednesday gave the community a way to pay their respects for an officer who was killed in the line of duty Tuesday night.

For anyone who would like to leave memorials for Ofc. Brent Scrimshire, his unit has been parked in front of the police department.

“We want to thank everyone for the outpouring of love and support from everyone during this trying time,” said the HSPD in a post on its Facebook page.

For anyone who wants to make a donation to Ofc. Scrimshire’s family, an account has been set up at Farmer’s Bank on 521 East Page, in Malvern.

There is also a GoFundMe page (click here) accepting donations for the officer’s family.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/officer-brent-scrimshire-family

Near the scene where the shooting happened, we spoke to people who shared reaction to the incident.

Shelby Pierce says her stepdaughter was in the house on Kenwood Street where the shooting happened just yards away outside.

“My heart has literally been in my chest today thinking anything could’ve happened with her,” Pierce said.

She says the entire community is mourning Scrimshire’s loss of a man who gave the ultimate sacrifice.

“These police officers sacrifice every day to come out here and risk their lives to keep the community safe,” Pierce said. “There is a family that doesn’t have a dad and a husband.”

From HSPD’s Facebook page:

The following funeral arrangements have been set for Officer First Class Brent Scrimshire:

Visitation – Monday, March 16 – First Baptist Church, Hot Springs — 12 p.m. until 2 p.m.

Funeral Service – Monday, March 16 – First Baptist Church, Hot Springs at 2 p.m.

Internment—Oakridge Cemetery, Malvern

Update:

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. — The Hot Springs Police officer who was shot and killed Tuesday night had received multiple awards for his service.

Officer Brent Scrimshire had been with the HSPD for a little over six years.

In 2016, he was named a regional officer of the year by Attorney General Leslie Rutledge.

Attorney General Rutledge released the following statement after learning about Scrimshire’s death Tuesday night:

“My heart breaks for the family of Officer Brent Scrimshire who was killed in the line of duty tonight. Our men and women in blue hold the line every day so Arkansans can sleep safely at night. Unfortunately, Officer Scrimshire paid the ultimate sacrifice and we are forever indebted to him. My prayers and deepest condolences go out to Officer Scrimshire’s family and the entire Hot Springs Police Department as they are faced with this devastating loss.”

Attorney General Leslie Rutledge

Lieutenant Governor Tim Griffin released the following statement Wednesday morning:

“My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Officer Brent Scrimshire during this tragic and difficult time. He will be remembered for his courage and dedication to serve and protect the people of Hot Springs. My heart also goes out to the Hot Springs Police Department as they grieve the loss of one of their own. Today’s news is a tragic reminder to Arkansans of the risks our law enforcement officers face each and every day as they strive to make our communities safer.” 

Lieutenant Governor Tim Griffin

Most recently, Scrimshire was selected as HSPD’s officer of the quarter in September.

His supervisors chose him for his dedication, work ethic and professionalism.

Original Story:

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. — A local police officer has died after a Tuesday night shooting that happened during a traffic stop.

The Hot Springs Police Department (HSPD) says Officer Brent Scrimshire was shot in an exchange of gunfire with a suspect around 6:30 on Kenwood Street.

Officer Scrimshire died after being taken to the hospital. The suspect was also wounded but their name and condition is not yet being released.

Police ask for thoughts and prayers for Officer Scrimshire’s family and the HSPD.

The Arkansas State Police is leading the investigation into the shooting.

The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office tweeted this out about the situation: