Forrest City Mourns the Tragic Loss of 50-Year-Old James Hubbard After Fatal Shooting

💔 Forrest City Mourns the Tragic Loss of 50-Year-Old James Hubbard After Fatal Shooting

FORREST CITY, Ark. — A wave of sorrow and disbelief has swept through the community of Forrest City following the tragic and senseless death of James Edward Hubbard Jr., 50, who was found fatally shot early Tuesday morning inside his vehicle. The heartbreaking incident has left family, friends, and neighbors grappling with the loss of a man described as caring, dependable, and deeply rooted in the community.

A Quiet Morning Turns Tragic

Shortly after 3:00 a.m., officers from the Forrest City Police Department responded to a call at 1039 S Rosser St., where they discovered James slumped in the driver’s seat of his car outside his home. He had sustained a gunshot wound to the right temple, and the scene indicated the presence of at least two shell-casings in the passenger floorboard of the vehicle. The St. Francis County Coroner’s Office pronounced him deceased at the scene.

Police have confirmed that the death is being investigated as a homicide, and they are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Currently, no suspects have been publicly identified, and the motive remains unknown.

Remembering James

To his loved ones, James was more than just a neighbor — he was a friend, a steady presence, a man of integrity who valued those around him. Friends say he had an easygoing personality, a sincere smile, and a quiet way of showing care for others. Neighbors described him as someone who would help out when needed, always ready with a word of kindness or a lending hand.

“He cared about people. He didn’t look for recognition — he just lived with decency and heart,” a close friend reflected.

In a community like Forrest City, where residents often know one another by name, James’s absence is felt deeply. His passing leaves behind echoes of laughter, shared stories, and moments of everyday kindness that will long outlive the tragedy.

Community Response & Call for Justice

As news of the shooting spread, friends and neighbors began leaving flowers, notes, and candles near the site where James’s car was found — a humble but powerful testament to the impact he had on those around him. Social media has seen an outpouring of grief, with posts recalling his warmth and the countless small acts of compassion he displayed.

Local leaders have expressed their condolences and emphasized that this incident is not just a crime statistic — it’s a loss of life, a life with meaning, relationships, and stories. They have asked the public to remain vigilant and supportive as the investigation continues.

The Forrest City Police Department is actively encouraging anyone with information to call the tip line at 870-633-3434. “Even the smallest detail could be the key to justice,” a spokesperson said.

Holding On to His Legacy

In the face of heartbreak, the Forrest City community is reminding each other of a vital truth: that each life matters, and that each person’s presence leaves a mark. James’s legacy will not be defined by the way his life ended, but by the way he lived — with compassion, authenticity, and connection.

As friends and family prepare memorial arrangements, many have expressed a desire to remember James not only in grief but in gratitude. They plan to celebrate his life with stories, reflections, and gatherings that honor his kindness and love.

A local neighbor captured the sentiment best: “James made this place better just by being here. The world feels smaller without him, but his spirit lives on in the memories we share.”

🕊️ Rest in peace, James Hubbard.
Your kindness, your presence, your quiet strength will never be forgotten. The community stands with your family, remembering the light you brought into so many lives.