On May 3, 2025, the Pine Bluff Police Department responded to a domestic disturbance at the Park View apartments, following a call from a family member. The situation escalated when a male occupant, Melvin Sanders, barricaded himself inside apartment 23. S.W.A.T. and negotiators were summoned to assist.
After nearly three hours, Sanders surrendered and was taken into custody without incident, despite sustaining a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the hand.
Upon entering the apartment, officers discovered the body of Yashika Morris, who had suffered fatal gunshot wounds. She was declared dead at the scene by the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office.
Sanders is facing charges of Capital Murder and will be booked into the Jefferson County Jail after receiving medical treatment.
The police are seeking additional information related to this case. Individuals with relevant details are encouraged to contact the detective office tip line at 870-730-2106, the detective office at 870-730-2090, or the dispatch center at 870-541-5300.
