Four individuals identified by authorities as members of a local gang have been arrested following a late-night shooting incident and subsequent investigation by the Pine Bluff Police Department.
According to police, officers responded around 12:33 a.m. on March 29 to a disturbance call in the area of Blake Street after reports of multiple gunshots. While in the area, officers observed a silver or white Dodge Charger traveling at a high rate of speed and attempted a traffic stop.
The vehicle fled westbound onto West 28th Avenue, continued onto Taft Street, and eventually wrecked and caught fire. Police said all occupants fled the scene on foot.
A short time later, officers located a green Dodge Challenger believed to be connected to the incident at Jefferson Regional Medical Center, where several individuals were being treated for non-life-threatening injuries. Investigators were told the victims had been shot at by occupants of the Dodge Charger near 101 North Blake Street.
On April 1, members of the department’s Violent Crimes Apprehension Team conducted surveillance at a residence in the500 block of Talbot Street. During the operation, officers observed a suspect, later identified as Bralen Whaley, handling a rifle.
Police attempted a traffic stop, which led to a pursuit. The driver, identified as Keontae Davis, fled back to the residence, where multiple individuals were detained.
A search warrant executed at the residence resulted in the recovery of three firearms, including a Glock handgun equipped with a switch and two AR-style pistols, both modified with devices converting them to automatic weapons, according to authorities.
The following individuals were arrested:
— Bralen Whaley, charged with first-degree battery, committing a terroristic act, engaging in criminal group activity, and engaging in a criminal gang
— Ta’couri McKenzie, charged with first-degree battery, committing a terroristic act, gang activity, possession of a prohibited weapon, and violation of the Arkansas Machine Gun Act
— Xzaveion Reed, charged with gang activity and violation of the Arkansas Machine Gun Act
— Keontae Davis, charged with gang activity, felony fleeing, and violation of the Arkansas Machine Gun Act
Authorities said all four are believed to be affiliated with the HOG, or “Hop Out Gang.”
Police said the investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Pine Bluff Police Department tip hotline at 870-730-2106, the detective office at 870-730-2090, or dispatch at 870-541-5300. Anonymous tips are also accepted.
