23-year-old Callie Weems Identified By Her Mother As Victim In Fordyce Grocery Store Shooting; Travis Posey, 44, Charged With First-degree Murder
In a heartbreaking incident that has shaken the small town of Fordyce, Dallas County, 23-year-old Callie Weems was identified as one of the victims of a mass shooting at The Mad Butcher grocery store. Callie, a dedicated nurse at the Dallas County Medical Center, was grocery shopping on her day off when the tragic event unfolded. She leaves behind a 10-month-old daughter, a loss that reverberates through her family, friends, and the entire community.
The incident occurred around 11:38 am, transforming a routine morning into a scene of chaos and terror. The suspect, 44-year-old Travis Posey, is currently being held at the Ouachita County Sheriff’s Office on charges of first-degree murder. According to authorities, Posey opened fire at the grocery store, resulting in the shooting of 11 civilians. Three of these individuals, including Callie Weems, succumbed to their injuries.
In addition to the civilian casualties, two law enforcement officers were also wounded in the exchange of gunfire. Fortunately, their injuries were not deemed critical, and they are expected to recover. The shooter, Posey, was injured during the incident and subsequently taken into custody.
The loss of Callie Weems has deeply affected the local community. Known for her compassion and dedication, Callie was a valued member of the Dallas County Medical Center team. Her colleagues describe her as a hardworking and caring nurse who always went above and beyond for her patients. The void left by her untimely death is profound, especially for her young daughter, who will now grow up without her mother’s love and guidance.
Helen Weems, Callie’s mother, expressed her devastation and disbelief to Channel 3 NOW, highlighting the senselessness of the violence that took her daughter’s life. The Weems family, along with the entire community, is grappling with the enormity of their loss while trying to support each other through this difficult time.
The sequence of events leading to the shooting is still under investigation, with law enforcement working diligently to piece together the circumstances. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, which sent shoppers and employees scrambling for safety. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, providing immediate medical attention to the wounded and securing the scene.
Fordyce Police Chief, John Smith, addressed the media, stating, “This is a tragic day for our community. Our hearts go out to the victims and their families. We are committed to ensuring justice is served and will continue to provide support to those affected by this senseless act.”
The Suspect: Travis Posey
Travis Posey, now facing multiple charges including first-degree murder, remains in custody at the Ouachita County Sheriff’s Office. Posey’s motive for the shooting is still unclear, and investigators are exploring all possible leads. According to public records, Posey has a history of run-ins with the law, although none as severe as the current charges.
Community Response and Support
In the wake of the tragedy, the Fordyce community has come together to support the victims and their families. Vigils and memorials are being organized, and local organizations are providing counseling and support services. The Dallas County Medical Center has set up a fund to assist Callie Weems’ daughter, ensuring she has the resources she needs in the future.
Local leaders have also called for increased measures to prevent such incidents from occurring again. Discussions around mental health support, gun control, and community safety are taking center stage as residents seek solutions to protect their town from further violence.
The shooting at The Mad Butcher grocery store has left an indelible mark on Fordyce, Dallas County. The loss of Callie Weems, a young nurse and mother, is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the far-reaching impact of senseless violence. As the community mourns, the resolve to support each other and seek justice remains strong. Authorities continue their investigation, aiming to provide answers and bring closure to those affected by this devastating event.
