Remains found in White County in 1989 identified as Vilonia man

Human remains discovered in White County more than three decades ago have been identified as Karl Brian Hooten, a 30-year-old man from Vilonia, authorities announced.The remains were found on April 20, 1989, off Swinging Bridge Road in the Antioch community. An autopsy at the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory determined the man had been shot. Investigators later learned Hooten was living in Faulkner County at the time of his death.

In 2024, DNA from the remains was submitted to Othram, a forensic laboratory in The Woodlands, Texas, where scientists developed a comprehensive DNA profile. In January 2025, the testing revealed potential familial matches.

Detectives from the White County Sheriff’s Office and the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division’s Cold Case Unit followed up by interviewing relatives and collecting additional DNA samples. On June 13, 2025, the remains were officially identified as Hooten’s.

The investigation remains ongoing. Authorities are asking anyone who knew Hooten or may have information about his death to contact Arkansas State Police at (870) 931-0043 or the White County Sheriff’s Office at (501) 279-6279.

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