Arkansas Teenager Arrested for Murder After Shooting at Prom Afterparty: Cops

An Arkansas teenager was arrested for allegedly shooting and killing a high school senior at a prom afterparty, authorities said.

The Phillips County Sheriff’s Office first responded to a report of a shooting outside a party following Helena-West Helena’s Central High School prom, and requested assistance from Arkansas State Police at around 1 a.m. on April 21.

The party attended by students was located across the street from Ater Warehouse, on Highway 49 in West Helena.

The victim of the fatal shooting was identified as 18-year-old Lorenzo Harrison III. His body was transported to the Arkansas State Crime Lab for an autopsy.

Donterious Stephens, 19, a CHS graduate, was arrested on April 21 and charged with first degree murder and possession of firearms, according to Arkansas State Police.

"On the behalf of the Helena-West Helena School District Administration our hearts ache for the tragic loss of our beloved 12th-grade student at Central High School, and our deepest sympathies extend to his grieving family, classmates, friends, and our entire school community impacted by this senseless act of violence," the Helena-West Helena school district said in a statement.

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"In times of such profound grief, it is essential that we offer not only our empathy but also tangible support. Therefore, the district's crisis team will be onsite tomorrow morning at Central High School to provide immediate counseling services for all who need it," the district said. "During this time of immense sorrow, let us lean on one another for strength and solace. Together, may we honor his memory and work towards healing the wounds inflicted by this tragedy."

TMX contributed to this report.