The Star City Police Department is investigating the murder of 19-year-old Christopher Vick that took place on July 4 at 612 South Lincoln in the Dollar General parking lot.
Following the homicide Star City police arrested 19-year-old Dawson Maples from Benton and William Pearson.
Lincoln County Prosecutor Clint Todd stated in a probable cause hearing for Maples that Vick and Pearson contacted Maples wanting to purchase a half ounce of marijuana, with the intent to rob Maples once he arrived. Todd said that Maples showed up to meet Vick and Pearson, but had an unidentified black male in the car with him. Todd then described what happened next.
Pearson was later located and arrested by Star City police officers. He then gave a statement describing his side of the story.
During the investigation officers learned that the green Toyota Prius driven by Dawson Maples was owned by his father’s business, Maples Investments, in Benton. A search warrant was issued for the vehicle. Once contact was made with the vehicle Maples’ father, Murray Maples made a statement to officers regarding the incident. The search of the vehicle yielded several pieces of evidence, which Todd described.
Judge Kim Bridgforth found probable cause to charge Dawson Maples with First Degree Murder, delivery of a controlled substance, unlawful use of a communications device, and tampering with physical evidence.
A $75,000 secure bond was set for Maples. Maples will have to wear an ankle monitor upon release, and will only be able to travel to work and his attorney’s office. He will also have an 8 p.m. curfew with the exception of a 10 p.m. curfew on work nights.
Maples was also ordered to return to court on August 10 at 9 a.m.
Pearson is being held in connection to the murder at this time, while the black male is still unidentified at this time and has not been arrested. Anyone with any information on this murder can contact the Star City Police Department at 870-628-4244
