HEBER SPRINGS, AR – A local educator is facing a murder charge after authorities say he shot his brother multiple times during a violent confrontation at a rural home Monday evening in Cleburne County.
Sheriff’s deputies responded to the residence on Heber Springs Road North just after 7 p.m., following reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, they encountered Dustin Cannon, 42, who identified himself as the shooter, and discovered the body of his brother, Austin Cannon, outside the house. Officials say the victim had suffered numerous gunshot wounds to his upper body and neck area.
According to investigators, Dustin Cannon admitted to firing every round from his .40-caliber handgun, which held 21 bullets, after claiming his brother threatened his wife and daughter. The incident unfolded on the back porch, with evidence indicating Austin Cannon was first shot while standing before being hit several more times after collapsing.
Authorities questioned a woman who witnessed the shooting. She reportedly told detectives that tensions had been mounting between the brothers. She cited Dustin’s anger over Austin’s lifestyle choices, including his lack of employment and family commitment, as well as recent family disputes related to their mother’s will.
Detectives reviewed Austin Cannon’s cellphone and found a string of terse, expletive-filled messages from Dustin Cannon in the minutes leading up to the deadly exchange. Court documents indicate that Austin arrived at the home shortly after the last of these messages was sent.
Dustin Cannon told law enforcement that Austin came at him and raised a fist, prompting Dustin to start shooting in fear for his family’s safety. Investigators are reviewing these accounts as they continue piecing together the events that led to the fatal shooting.
Dustin Cannon is employed as a teacher in the Bald Knob School District. Following his arrest, he was booked into the Cleburne County Detention Center, with bond set at $1 million pending further judicial proceedings.
Austin Cannon’s age was not specified by authorities. Officials have not detailed whether any previous incidents between the brothers had been reported in the past.
As the investigation continues, the sheriff’s office is urging anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward. No information about funeral arrangements or family statements had been released as of Tuesday afternoon.