FORT SMITH, Ark. — A court date has been set for 15-year-old Connor Castillo, who is being charged in the murder of Bailey Smith, who was also 15 years old, in Fort Smith on Dec. 6.
According to officials, the crime took place in the 1400 block of North 36th Street just two blocks north of Tilles Park. Fort Smith police reports state that on Dec. 6, Castillo was involved in a fight with other teenagers, when he pulled out a gun and began firing. The shooting killed Smith and injured a 12-year-old whose name is withheld, according to police.
Family and friends of Bailey said he was killed while trying to break up the fight and protect his girlfriend from getting hurt.
Officials said Castillo was arrested the night of the shooting and is being charged as an adult with first-degree murder and battery.
His first day in court was Wednesday, Dec. 13, where a court date and bond were set. Castillo will be due in court on May 13, 2024, and his bond is set at $250,000. The judge entered a plea of not guilty on behalf of Castillo.
Stay with 5NEWS for updates on this developing story.
Watch 5NEWS on YouTube.
Download the 5NEWS app on your smartphone:
Stream 5NEWS 24/7 on the 5+ app: How to watch the 5+ app on your streaming device
To report a typo or grammatical error, please email KFSMDigitalTeam@tegna.com and detail which story you're referring to.