PARAGOULD, AR — Community Grieves the Sudden Loss of Jacob Ward and Tyler Slayton in Tragic Suspected Hit-and-Run
PARAGOULD, AR — A profound wave of grief and disbelief has swept through Paragould, Arkansas, following the sudden and devastating deaths of two young men — Jacob Ward and Tyler Slayton — whose lives were cut tragically short in what witnesses are reporting as a fatal hit-and-run accident.
The incident reportedly occurred late in the evening, though law enforcement has not yet released official details confirming the precise time or location. What is clear, however, is the deep and immediate impact the loss of these two vibrant lives has had on family, friends, and the broader Paragould community.
What We Know So Far
According to multiple eyewitness accounts circulating on social media and shared with local news outlets, Jacob and Tyler were walking or standing near a roadside area when they were struck by a vehicle that fled the scene. Authorities have not yet named any suspects or issued an official statement, though the Greene County Sheriff’s Office and Paragould Police Department are reportedly conducting an active and ongoing investigation.
Law enforcement has asked the public to come forward with any information, dashcam footage, or surveillance video from the surrounding area that may assist in identifying the vehicle involved in the tragic incident.
Two Young Lives, So Much Left to Give
Both Jacob Ward and Tyler Slayton were well-known and deeply loved within the Paragould area. Friends and family have described them as loyal, kind-hearted, and full of life, with infectious laughter and generous spirits.
Jacob was remembered by those who knew him as someone who would “give you the shirt off his back.” He was known for his hardworking nature, love of music and the outdoors, and his unwavering dedication to his friends and family. “Jacob had a light in him — a spark,” said one of his closest friends. “He was the kind of person who made you feel better just by being around him.”
Tyler Slayton was described as funny, smart, and endlessly compassionate. His love for life and adventurous personality made him the kind of person people gravitated toward. “He was a brother, a friend, and a protector,” said one grieving family member. “He had plans, he had dreams — he didn’t deserve this.”
The pair were often seen together, and friends say their bond was one of genuine friendship, laughter, and loyalty. That they died together — under such tragic circumstances — has only deepened the sorrow felt by those mourning their loss.
A Community in Mourning
As news of the incident spread, an outpouring of support has been visible across Paragould. Community members have created makeshift memorials, organized prayer vigils, and flooded social media with messages of love, remembrance, and justice.
“We are absolutely heartbroken,” said one local resident who attended a candlelight vigil held in their memory. “They were too young, with too much ahead of them. We will not let this go unnoticed.”
Many in the community are calling on local authorities to step up efforts to locate the driver responsible and ensure accountability. “Someone knows something,” said a local pastor who spoke at the vigil. “And whoever did this — if you have any conscience at all — come forward.”
Investigation Continues
The Greene County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that they are actively investigating the incident and working to identify the vehicle involved in what they believe is a hit-and-run. Forensic teams are reviewing physical evidence from the scene, and law enforcement is asking for the public’s help.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Greene County Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers of Paragould. Tips can be submitted anonymously and may help bring closure to a grieving community and justice for two families left shattered.
Moving Forward Through Grief
The families of Jacob Ward and Tyler Slayton have expressed their immense grief but also their gratitude for the community’s support. Plans for a joint memorial service are underway, with details to be announced in the coming days.
“We’re devastated,” said a spokesperson for the Ward family. “But we’re also surrounded by love. Paragould has always been a strong town, and right now, we need that strength more than ever.”
Tyler’s family echoed that sentiment: “We want answers, yes — but more than anything, we want people to remember Tyler and Jacob for who they were: beautiful souls taken far too soon.”
As the sun sets on Paragould each evening, candles continue to flicker in memory of Jacob Ward and Tyler Slayton, a stark and painful reminder that even in the most ordinary places, tragedy can strike — but so can unity, compassion, and love.
Anyone with information is urged to call the Greene County Sheriff’s Office at (870) 239-6343 or Paragould Crime Stoppers at (870) 236-8477.