Huntsville Man Accused of Attempted Murder Dies in Fiery Arkansas Highway Crash
GREEN FOREST, ARKANSAS — A Madison County man awaiting trial for attempted murder has died in a two-vehicle crash in northwest Arkansas, just weeks after his court date was scheduled, according to a report from the Arkansas State Police.
Authorities identified the driver as 32-year-old Peyton Dodson of Huntsville, who was killed on November 1, 2025, when his vehicle crossed the center line on Highway 103 near Green Forest and struck another car traveling in the opposite direction.
Crash Details Released by State Police
The Arkansas State Police crash report states that the collision occurred around 11 a.m. Friday under cloudy and wet conditions, which may have contributed to the accident.
Dodson was pronounced dead at the scene, while the driver of the second vehicle sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Officials said no other passengers were in either vehicle, and no criminal charges will be filed in connection with the crash.
Suspect Awaited Trial on Attempted Murder Charge
Court records show that Peyton Dodson had been charged with attempted murder and 10 counts of terroristic acts after an alleged shooting in July 2024 in which he fired into an apartment building while attempting to kill a man.
The victim, according to police reports, was critically injured and later required a leg amputation as a result of the gunfire.
Dodson had pleaded not guilty to all charges and was awaiting a jury trial scheduled for May 27, 2026, following an earlier court hearing set for April 14.
Background and Community Reaction
The case had drawn attention in Madison County due to the severity of the charges and the injuries suffered by the victim. Prosecutors were preparing for what was expected to be a lengthy trial, citing extensive forensic evidence and multiple witness statements.
Local officials said Dodson’s death effectively closes the criminal case, though civil actions connected to the 2024 shooting may continue.
“This was a tragic end to an already violent series of events,” said a Madison County law enforcement source familiar with the case. “Thankfully, no one else lost their life in this crash.”
Investigation Concludes
The Arkansas State Police continue to review crash data, but early findings indicate the incident was accidental and likely caused by poor road conditions and loss of control.
Authorities have not released funeral details for Dodson. The victim of the original 2024 shooting remains in recovery from long-term injuries.
As Arkansas authorities close the investigation into the fatal crash, the case serves as a reminder of how quickly tragedy can compound tragedy — both on the roads and in communities affected by violence. For continued updates on breaking local and regional news, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.