Cleburne County, AR – A man has been charged with first-degree murder following the shooting death of his brother. Dustin Cannon, 42, allegedly fired an entire clip at Austin Cannon during an incident at their home.
The shooting occurred Monday evening when deputies arrived at a residence on Heber Springs Road North around 7:10 p.m. Officials found Austin Cannon unresponsive outside with multiple gunshot wounds.
Dustin Cannon reportedly told investigators he shot his brother because he felt threatened. He claimed his brother had threatened to kill his wife and daughter.
Court documents reveal that the suspect opened fire after his brother allegedly approached him in an aggressive manner. Cannon stated he began shooting when his brother raised his fist.
The gun used was a .40-caliber weapon with a capacity of 21 rounds. Reports indicate he discharged all the rounds in the firearm.
Witness accounts suggest Austin Cannon was shot while standing on the back porch and sustained additional shots after falling to the ground.
A witness described tension between the brothers, citing Dustin’s anger over Austin’s alleged failure to support his family. Investigators discovered hostile messages on Austin’s cellphone from Dustin just minutes prior to the shooting.
Dustin Cannon works as a teacher in the Bald Knob School District. He is currently held at the Cleburne County Detention Center on a bond set at $1 million.
