FORT SMITH (KFSM) -- The Fort Smith Police Department has identified the victim of a deadly shooting that occurred Saturday (Jan. 23) as 22-year-old Kaleb Watson.
Det. Anthony Parkinson said it appears two suspects invaded and robbed his home at North 47th Street and Windsor Drive. He said Watson was shot multiple times in the chest and leg. He was later pronounced dead at a Fort Smith hospital.
Police are searching for two black males believed to be suspects in the case. Parkinson said witnesses described them as wearing dark, baggy clothing with ski masks covering their faces.
Parkinson said a suspect knocked on the front door, then went to the back of the house. Watson went to answer the door when the two suspects went through the back door, which was unlocked, according to police.
Police said after shooting Watson, the suspects were able to get away with undisclosed items, leaving through the back door on foot.
Another person in the house was able to call 911. Police said it is unclear if the suspects knew the victim.
If you have any information, or see any of the described clothing near the area of the crime, you are asked to call police.
The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith said Watson was studying engineering at the school. The following statement was released:
"We are shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of one of our own students, Kaleb Watson. It is heartbreaking to lose Kaleb with so much of his life ahead of him. Kaleb lived off-campus, and this incident occurred off campus. But regardless of where our students live, we are concerned about the safety and the security of all of them. We extend our deepest condolences to Kaleb's family and friends during this difficult time, and will be providing counseling for UAFS students as needed."
