Pine Bluff police have arrested the mother of a homicide suspect accused of hindering authorities, while investigators continue their search for the man wanted in a fatal shooting on South Missouri Street.
Sparkle Bankston, the mother of 25-year-old Thomaz Johnson, was taken into custody Wednesday on charges of hindering apprehension. Police say Johnson remains wanted in connection with a homicide that occurred around 9:05 p.m. on Sept. 23, 2025, at 615 South Missouri Street.
A $1,500 reward is now being offered for information leading to Johnson’s arrest.
Johnson is described as a Black male, 5’10” tall, weighing about 160 pounds. His last known address was 2317 Belair Drive in Pine Bluff.
The victim in the shooting has been identified as 29-year-old Jimmie Epperson, who was pronounced dead at the scene by Jefferson County Deputy Coroner Teddy Spivey after officers found him with multiple gunshot wounds.
Police are urging anyone with information on Johnson’s whereabouts to contact the Pine Bluff Police Department Detective Division at 870-730-2090, the tip line at 870-730-2106, or the dispatch center at 870-541-5300.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials say more information will be released as it becomes available.
