FAYETTEVILLE -- The man accused of fatally stabbing a Springdale woman Wednesday morning told investigators he was ordered to kill her by two other men over stolen methamphetamine, according to a report released Thursday.
Brock Atkins, 19, of 579 Story Lane in west Springdale was arrested Wednesday on a capital murder charge in connection with the death of Leann Frazier, 32. He is being held in the Washington County Detention Center without bond.
Atkins' arraignment is scheduled for June 23 in Washington County Circuit Court. If convicted, he could be sentenced to life in prison or the death penalty.
Washington County Sheriff's Office deputies were called to Story Lane early Wednesday. Atkins was arrested shortly after.
Atkins told investigators Frazier and two other men showed up at his house about 4 a.m.. Frazier accused Atkins of stealing methamphetamine from her.
Atkins repeatedly denied knowing what she was talking about. One of the men then pointed a handgun at Atkins' head and said if Atkins was telling the truth, Frazier was lying. The man said he would kill Atkins and his family if Atkins didn't kill Frazier.
The man handed Atkins a "Gerber-brand knife," according to the report. Gerber Gear sells several varieties of tactical and military-style blades, according to its website.
Frazier tried to run, Atkins told investigators, but he pursued. He cut her across the face and threw a chunk of wood at her chest, the report says, before tackling her and stabbing her in the throat "until she stopped making any noises."
Detectives found Frazier's body, the handgun and the knife after searching the residence. Other evidence found fit Atkins' story, according to the report. Frazier's body was sent to the Arkansas State Crime Lab for an autopsy.
A Sheriff's Office spokeswoman said deputies aren't actively seeking other suspects.
"Not at this time," Kelly Cantrell, spokeswoman, said Thursday afternoon. "But the investigation is ongoing, and we'll just have to go where the evidence leads us."
NW News on 05/23/2014