Former Razorback Arrested After West Fork Man Found Dead

Josh Melton was arrested Wednesday in connection to a second-degree murder.

Josh Melton was arrested Wednesday in connection to a second-degree murder.

Wednesday, August 28, 2013

FAYETTEVILLE — Police arrested a former Arkansas Razorback football player Wednesday in connection with the death of a man.

Police Sgt. Craig Stout identified the deceased man as Michael Gover of West Fork.

Officers arrested Josh Melton, 33, of Fayetteville in connection with second-degree murder. Melton is a Batesville native who played center for the Razorbacks from 1999 to 2002.

Stout said officers were sent to 6316 Copper Ridge Lane off Wedington Drive about 10 a.m. Wednesday. Police dispatchers reported Melton and Gover had been “swapping licks” and Melton was unable to wake Gover, according to the preliminary arrest report.

Police found Melton sitting in his home’s driveway with blood on his hands, feet and left arm. They said Melton was crying and slumped over. Police found Gover dead on the floor with blood on his face and chest.

During an interview at the Police Department, Melton told officers he and Gover were drinking at a restaurant Tuesday and they left and went to a second restaurant to drink. Melton said Gover bought their drinks and they stayed until the restaurant closed at 2 a.m., according to the report.

Melton said the two then went to his home on West Copper Ridge and drank some alcohol “shots.” Melton said he passed out and woke to find Gover had vomited on the living room floor. Melton said he confronted Gover about the mess and Gover responded with “lewd comments.” Melton said Gover touched him inappropriately, which scared Melton, according to the report.

Police said Melton told them he went into a “rage” and punched Gover multiple times. He told police when he left Gover he was on the living room and was breathing.

Melton told police he was unsure of where he slept, but said he woke Wednesday morning in his bed. He found Gover in the living room unresponsive, according to the report.

Melton was being held at the Washington County Detention Center on Wednesday with no bond set.

Stout said the investigation into the incident is continuing.