Death Investigation in Weiner, AR

On March 13, 2025, at approximately 6:55 PM, the Weiner Police Department, Poinsett County Sheriff's Office, and Weiner Fire and Rescue were dispatched to a residence on South Street in Weiner, AR, following a report of a child found unresponsive. Weiner First Responders arrived on the scene before law enforcement officers. Upon their arrival, it was confirmed that the child was deceased.  

Deputies and officers began investigating the suspicious death immediately and contacted the Arkansas State Police for assistance. Special Agents from Company F arrived to aid in the investigation.  

It was determined that the child's mother, Sharece MonQue Scott, 30, of Weiner, AR, was not at the residence when emergency personnel arrived. During the investigation, Scott became a person of interest and, subsequently, a suspect. Witnesses reported that Scott left the residence on a brown bicycle, heading north on State Highway 49 earlier that afternoon. Thanks to assistance from citizens and other law enforcement agencies, Investigators located Scott at a motel in Jonesboro, AR. She was taken into custody around 1:40 AM on March 14, 2025, and transported to the Poinsett County Detention Center.  

A search warrant was executed at the property where the child was found. During the search, officers discovered and seized drugs, firearms (including one that was reported stolen), and a marijuana grow operation. Ridge Brandon Noel, 31, of Weiner, AR, was arrested at the residence and transported to the Poinsett County Detention Center.  

This is a complex and ongoing investigation. The body of the child has been sent to the Arkansas State Crime Lab for the Medical Examiner to determine the cause and manner of death. Currently, Scott and Noel are charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Minor in the First Degree. Additional charges will be announced soon.  

Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by this tragedy. The swift collaboration between law enforcement agencies, local citizens, and the fire department played a significant role in Scott's quick apprehension. We thank the deputies, officers, and investigators from the Poinsett County Sheriff's Office, Weiner Police Department, Weiner Fire Department, Arkansas State Police, Arkansas Game and Fish, Jonesboro Police Department, and the Arkansas Department of Human Services. Everyone worked diligently throughout the night and continues to investigate this case. More information will be released when it is available.

Sheriff Kevin Molder

Ridge Brandon Noel

Sharece MonQue Scott