The Camden Police Department has confirmed that the disappearance and subsequent death of 18-year-old William Braden Roberson is now being investigated as a homicide, according to an official press release issued by Chief of Police T.J. Robertson.
Roberson, a Camden resident, was initially reported missing on July 25, prompting a joint investigation by Camden Police, the Ouachita County Sheriff’s Department, and the Arkansas State Police. Investigators soon uncovered information indicating that Roberson had been involved in an altercation with three individuals on July 24, 2025.
He was confirmed to be dead Sunday evening in a statement posted by his mother on social media.
“With trembling hands, tears streaming down my face and a very heavy heart I am letting you all know Braden is with his baby sister in heaven,” wrote Eva Barrett, Roberson’s mother. “I know my sweet big-hearted baby boy was welcomed by so many loved ones he has lost in his short 18 years. He was loved on earth more than he will ever know and is now in God’s kingdom. One sweet day I will hold my babies again.”
It was initially believed that the incident occurred at Sandy Beach Park within Camden city limits. However, further investigation revealed the altercation actually occurred outside the city, prompting Camden Police to turn the case over to the Ouachita County Sheriff’s Department on July 26.
Arrest warrants were issued for the three individuals allegedly involved. That same afternoon, one suspect was taken into custody in Union County, while two others were apprehended in Bossier City, Louisiana.
As the investigation progressed and additional evidence was gathered, the case was elevated to a homicide investigation.
The Camden Police Department stated that it will continue to assist the Ouachita County Sheriff’s Department as the investigation moves forward.
Authorities have not yet released additional details about the suspects or the cause of Roberson’s death.
