Pine Bluff Mother Arrested in Tragic Death of Two-Month-Old Infant: Lacrystal Matthews Charged with First-Degree Murder

Pine Bluff Mother Arrested in Tragic Death of Two-Month-Old Infant: Lacrystal Matthews Charged with First-Degree Murder

PINE BLUFF, ARKANSAS — A heartbreaking tragedy has shaken the community of Pine Bluff after police arrested a 24-year-old mother in connection with the death of her two-month-old child. Lacrystal Matthews now faces a charge of First-Degree Murder after authorities say medical personnel observed alarming signs of physical abuse and neglect on the infant’s body.

According to the Pine Bluff Police Department, emergency responders were called to a local residence earlier this week following reports of an unresponsive infant. Upon arrival, medical personnel found the two-month-old child in critical condition. Despite efforts to revive the baby, the infant was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital.

What was initially reported as a medical emergency quickly escalated into a criminal investigation when doctors and forensic specialists at the hospital noted troubling indicators of potential foul play. The infant reportedly had multiple bruises across the body, including on the face and torso—marks that medical staff described as inconsistent with any accidental injury.

Further compounding suspicions were clear signs of malnourishment. According to police, the child appeared significantly underweight for their age, with visible signs of dehydration and neglect. The severity of the infant’s condition prompted immediate notification of child protection services and the Pine Bluff Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division.

Detectives began an intensive inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the infant’s death, including conducting interviews with the mother, Lacrystal Matthews, and other individuals who may have been present in the child’s life. Authorities say Matthews provided conflicting statements about the child’s injuries and was unable to offer any reasonable explanation for the bruises or the malnourished state.

Based on the totality of the evidence gathered—including medical reports, forensic findings, and interviews—investigators determined there was sufficient probable cause to arrest Matthews. On Thursday, she was taken into custody without incident and formally charged with First-Degree Murder, a Class Y felony in the state of Arkansas that carries the possibility of life imprisonment or the death penalty if convicted.

In a press conference held Friday afternoon, Pine Bluff Police Chief Lloyd Franklin Sr. expressed deep sorrow over the case and emphasized the department’s commitment to justice for the young victim.

“This is a devastating and deeply disturbing case,” Chief Franklin said. “A defenseless infant—just two months old—suffered unimaginable abuse and neglect. We will do everything in our power to ensure that justice is served.”

He also urged anyone who suspects child abuse or neglect to come forward immediately, saying that early intervention can save lives.

The Pine Bluff community has been left reeling in the wake of the child’s death. Several residents have taken to social media to express their heartbreak and outrage. A small memorial of teddy bears, candles, and flowers has already begun forming near the family’s home as neighbors and strangers alike mourn the innocent life lost far too soon.

Family members of Matthews have yet to publicly comment on the incident, and it remains unclear whether other children were in the household or involved. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and that additional charges or arrests may be possible as more details emerge.

Matthews is currently being held at the Jefferson County Detention Center without bond. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for early next week, where prosecutors are expected to lay out the initial case and possibly request enhanced penalties based on the nature of the alleged crime.

This case serves as a grim reminder of the vulnerability of children and the importance of vigilance within the community. Advocates for child welfare hope the tragedy will spark greater awareness and encourage stronger systems of support and intervention for at-risk families.

Anyone with information related to the case is urged to contact the Pine Bluff Police Department or submit an anonymous tip through the department’s crime hotline.

If you suspect child abuse or neglect in your community, please call the Arkansas Child Abuse Hotline at 1-844-SAVE-A-CHILD (1-844-728-3224). Your call could save a life.