Cold Case Investigation Update: Kelly Evans
On October 16, 2017, Ms. Kelly Evans was reported missing by her family from her residence on White Oak Road in rural Faulkner County. An investigation into her disappearance was immediately initiated. Several extensive search efforts were conducted utilizing ground search parties, cadaver dogs, drones, ATVs, and Arkansas State Police aircraft. Public assistance was requested, and, over the past eight 8 years, multiple social media campaigns and billboards were utilized in an effort to generate leads. The case remained active, a dedicated cold case investigator remained assigned, and all tips and information received were investigated.
On December 31, 2025, a hunter tracking game near White Oak Road contacted authorities after discovering what appeared to be human remains in an extremely densely wooded area near a water runoff channel. Upon responding, Faulkner County Sheriff's Office and Faulkner County Coroner's Office conducted an extensive search of the area. During that time, we were able to recover additional suspected human remains, clothing, and other personal items. The remains and associated items were submitted to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory for forensic analysis and identification. On January 16, 2026, the remains were positively identified as a 99.98% match with Ms. Kelly Evans. The cause of death has not been determined at this time.
While this is not the outcome we had hoped for or worked toward, we hope this identification provides the family with a measure of closure. This remains an ongoing and active investigation. As a result, no additional details will be publicly released at this time.
We continue to encourage anyone with information regarding this case to contact Lieutenant Cook or Investigator Howington at the Faulkner County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Division (501-450-4917).
Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may submit a tip through the Faulkner County Sheriff's Office Website at the following link: https://www.fcso.ar.gov/crime-tips
Our thoughts and prayers remain with the family of Kelly Evans at this time.
