Dean recounted what occurred on 5 March 2019. Officers with the Osceola Police Department and medical personnel were dispatched to the Osceola Housing Authority’s office. Officers found Shenekia, lying on the floor in the foyer and suffering gunshot wounds to her neck, arm, and head. It was learned that Shenekia had run from her across-the-street apartment, seeking help. Despite her injuries, she identified Antonio as the shooter before losing consciousness. Within two hours, Antonio called police. He told them that he was standing outside 216 Shippen and had hidden the murder weapon inside the house. Antonio was taken into custody without incident.

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Shenekia was the mother of six children. Her oldest two now reside with their father in Texas. The youngest four remain in Arkansas.

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“Shenekia’s death was tragic and senseless. Today’s plea and conviction bring justice for this terrible loss,” Dean said. “We want to thank Senekia’s family, particularly her cousins, for their help,” Chrestman added. “Through their memories of Shenekia, we were introduced to her and learned how much she was loved and is missed. We’re hopeful that this plea and conviction will give her entire family some closure and time to heal.”

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Antonio is ineligible for parole until he has served a minimum of 70% of his prison sentence, Dean explained. He was charged as a habitual offender, having received felony convictions in Missouri for the Unlawful Use of a Weapon (April 1998) and Leaving the Scene of an Accident with Personal Injury or Property Damage (March 2000). He had also been convicted of multiple Arkansas misdemeanors or unclassified offenses, including two counts of Possession of Controlled Substances (Marijuana) and two counts of Driving While Intoxicated.

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"We appreciate the Osceola Police Department’s hard work, dedication, and commitment to the citizens they serve," Dean said.