The tranquil town of Fordyce was shattered on June 21, 2024, by a horrific mass shooting at its only grocery store, The Mad Butcher. This senseless act of violence resulted in the deaths of three individuals and injuries to ten others, including two police officers. As this tight-knit community grapples with the aftermath, the stories of the victims remind us of the deep loss they leave behind.
The Incident
It was an ordinary Friday afternoon at The Mad Butcher, a staple in Fordyce where families shop and friends meet. This routine was violently disrupted when 44-year-old Travis Posey from nearby New Edinburg entered the store. Posey, known to some in the community, unleashed a torrent of gunfire, turning the everyday scene into one of chaos and tragedy.
Law enforcement quickly responded to the scene. Posey engaged in a shootout with officers, sustaining injuries that were non-life-threatening. He was subsequently apprehended and is now in custody at the Ouachita County Detention Center. Posey faces three counts of capital murder, with more charges likely as the investigation progresses.
Details about the specifics of the shooting, including whether it occurred inside or outside the store and the type of weapon used, remain under investigation. Arkansas State Police Col. Mike Hagar noted that the injuries among the wounded vary widely, from non-life-threatening to critically severe.
Remembering the Victims
Amidst the chaos, the lives lost are what the community of Fordyce mourns the most.
Callie Weems
23-year-old Callie Weems was a young mother, full of life and promise. She had a 10-month-old daughter who will now grow up without her mother’s love and guidance.
Callie was not just a mother; she was a dedicated healthcare worker, employed as a licensed practical nurse at the Dallas County Medical Center. On that fateful day, she was simply at the grocery store, a regular routine for many, when her life was abruptly ended.
Helen, Callie’s mother, tearfully shared her pain and disbelief. She revealed that she had known Travis Posey, the shooter, since he was a child. This personal connection deepens the sense of betrayal and tragedy for Callie’s family.
Shirley Kay Taylor
63-year-old Shirley Kay Taylor was another victim whose life was tragically cut short. She was in the process of checking out her groceries when she was fatally shot.
Shirley’s daughter, Angela Atchley, described her mother as a pillar of strength and love. Shirley was a devoted mother and grandmother, always ready with a warm meal and a kind word. Angela fondly recalled her mother’s tireless work ethic, noting that Shirley was “the hardest working woman ever.”
Shirley’s death leaves a significant void in her family, who will forever cherish her memory and the joy she brought into their lives.
Community Response
Fordyce is a small town where everyone knows each other, and the impact of this tragedy is profound. As news of the shooting spread, a wave of shock and grief swept through the community. Residents are banding together, offering support and comfort to the victims’ families and those who were injured.
Local authorities are working tirelessly to piece together the events that led to this devastating act. The Arkansas State Police are leading the investigation, seeking answers and justice for the victims. Community leaders and residents alike are calling for a renewed focus on gun violence and safety, hoping to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The town of Fordyce is not alone in its grief. Messages of sympathy and support have poured in from across the state and beyond. Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders expressed her condolences and emphasized the need for communities to come together in the face of such violence.
Moving Forward
As Fordyce begins the long journey of healing, the stories of those who lost their lives in The Mad Butcher shooting will not be forgotten. Callie Weems and Shirley Kay Taylor were more than just victims; they were beloved members of their community, each leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication.
The community is taking steps to support the families affected by the shooting. Fundraisers and memorials are being organized to help ease the financial and emotional burdens they now face. Local churches and organizations are opening their doors to provide counseling and support services.
In the wake of this tragedy, there is a pressing call for action. Conversations about gun violence and community safety are gaining urgency. Residents of Fordyce, while mourning their loss, are also looking towards a future where such events are preventable.
As the investigation continues, more details will emerge, shedding light on the full scope of this heartbreaking incident. For now, Fordyce stands united in grief and resilience, determined to honor the memory of the victims and support those who survived.