Tatayana Penister and Demetrius Feemster Identified as Victims in Conway, Arkansas Mass Shooting: Over 100 Rounds Fired by Multiple Suspects in 5th Avenue Park Tragedy That Left Nine Injured, One in Critical Condition

Conway, Ark. — In a tragic outbreak of gun violence that has shaken the central Arkansas community to its core, Conway police have confirmed the identities of two victims killed in a mass shooting at 5th Avenue Park on Sunday evening. The deceased have been identified as 24-year-old Tatayana Penister, of England, Arkansas, and 23-year-old Demetrius Feemster, of Little Rock.

The incident, which unfolded during a large gathering in the popular public park, has left residents reeling as authorities continue their investigation into what they now describe as a coordinated act of gun violence involving multiple suspects and at least six firearms.

According to Police Chief Chris Harris, over 100 rounds were fired in the attack, which took place around 8:00 p.m. on April 13. In addition to the two fatalities, nine individuals were injured, with one still in serious condition as of Tuesday morning.

A Gathering Turns Deadly: What Happened at 5th Avenue Park

The shooting occurred during a large, loosely organized party that drew attendees from across the region. According to police and witness reports, the gathering was promoted online and hosted by out-of-town organizers. The lack of official permits or coordination with the City of Conway has raised questions about security oversight and the growing trend of unauthorized public events.

Witnesses described the scene as chaotic and terrifying. “People were just hanging out, playing music, dancing, and all of a sudden, we heard what sounded like fireworks — but it wasn’t fireworks,” said Dominique Hayes, a Conway resident who attended the event. “It was gunshots. People started screaming, running in every direction. It was like a warzone.”

Authorities responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire. Upon arriving at the scene, Conway Police officers discovered victims strewn across various parts of the park. Several vehicles had been hit with bullets, and spent shell casings littered the area.

“The sheer volume of gunfire — over 100 rounds — is absolutely staggering,” Chief Harris said during a press conference Tuesday. “This was not random. Multiple suspects came to this location armed and opened fire indiscriminately. We are pursuing every lead to identify and apprehend those responsible.”

Remembering the Victims: Tatayana Penister and Demetrius Feemster

Tatayana Penister

Tatayana Penister was described by friends and family as a vibrant, compassionate young woman who had recently earned her associate’s degree and was considering enrolling at a cosmetology school. Born and raised in England, Arkansas, she was known for her artistic flair, generous spirit, and close ties to her family.

“She had dreams. She wanted to open her own beauty salon one day,” said her cousin, Laquisha Reynolds. “She was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. Our hearts are broken.”

Tatayana leaves behind a 4-year-old daughter, Aaliyah, who now must grow up without her mother.

Demetrius Feemster

Demetrius Feemster, a native of Little Rock, was equally beloved. A former high school athlete with a passion for mentoring younger teens, Feemster had recently begun working full-time at a logistics company and was saving up for trade school. Known for his infectious smile and easygoing nature, he had plans to become a journeyman electrician.

“Demetrius wasn’t involved in any street life,” said his best friend, Marcus Jackson. “He just wanted better for himself and his family. It’s so wrong that he’s gone.”

Both victims’ families are calling for justice and for those responsible to be held accountable.

The Injured: A Community Still in Recovery

Of the nine individuals injured in the shooting, one remains in critical condition at Conway Regional Medical Center. The other eight have reportedly sustained non-life-threatening injuries, ranging from gunshot wounds to abrasions and injuries caused during the chaotic stampede.

Names of the injured have not yet been released pending family notifications, but police have confirmed that they range in age from 17 to 33. At least three victims are reportedly students at nearby colleges, though no direct affiliation with the University of Central Arkansas (UCA) has been confirmed.

Doctors treating the victims say that physical recovery is only part of the challenge. “We’re also working with mental health counselors because this type of traumatic event leaves emotional scars that don’t heal as quickly as broken bones,” said Dr. Sandra Nunez, trauma physician at the hospital.

The Weapons and Gunfire: Over 100 Rounds from Six Firearms

Ballistics experts and investigators recovered more than 100 shell casings at the scene, indicating the use of six separate firearms of varying calibers. Preliminary reports suggest a mix of semi-automatic handguns and rifles, though authorities have not confirmed specific models.

Chief Harris called the incident one of the most severe mass shootings in Conway’s recent history. “The amount of firepower used in this attack suggests a level of coordination we typically associate with gang-related or targeted criminal activity,” he said. “However, we’re still determining the motive.”

Video footage from nearby homes and businesses is being collected and analyzed, and police have urged witnesses to come forward with any cellphone videos, social media posts, or photos that may help piece together the timeline and identify the shooters.

Unauthorized Event Raises Safety and Oversight Concerns

The gathering at 5th Avenue Park was not approved by the city, and no permit was issued for the event. According to the City of Conway’s permit office, no official request for public use of the park was submitted for the date in question.

“There was no permit. No security. No coordination with local authorities,” said Councilwoman Janelle Morris. “And yet, over 100 people gathered. That’s deeply concerning. We’re going to have to revisit our policies to ensure public safety in our parks.”

Rumors swirled online in the days before the event that it was affiliated with the University of Central Arkansas. However, UCA officials quickly dispelled those claims. “The University had no role in planning, promoting, or endorsing this event,” said UCA spokesperson Teresa Waller. “We want to be very clear about that.”

Police Investigation and Search for Suspects

As of Tuesday afternoon, no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting. Investigators are reviewing hours of surveillance footage and digital evidence, including social media livestreams and posts tied to the party.

The Conway Police Department is working in tandem with the Arkansas State Police, the FBI’s Little Rock Field Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) to track down suspects. According to Chief Harris, multiple individuals are believed to have fled the scene on foot or in vehicles that were seen speeding away in several directions.

“We believe several shooters were working in coordination. Whether this was a gang dispute, a personal vendetta, or an act of retaliation is still under investigation,” Harris said.

Community Reaction: Mourning, Anger, and Calls for Change

In the aftermath of the shooting, the city of Conway has come together in mourning. Vigils for the victims are being planned throughout the week, and a growing number of residents are calling for stronger oversight of public gatherings and better youth engagement programs.

“This is a wake-up call,” said Rev. James Collier of the Greater Faith Church. “We’ve seen shootings in other cities, and now it’s hit home. We must do more to invest in our young people, offer them alternatives, and foster a community where safety is the standard — not the exception.”

The tragedy has also reignited debates around gun violence, illegal firearms, and the responsibilities of social media platforms in promoting unsanctioned events.

Expert Perspective: Trends in Gun Violence and Public Gatherings

Dr. Melinda Carver, a criminologist at the University of Arkansas, says the Conway shooting fits into a larger trend seen across the country.

“We’re witnessing a disturbing rise in large-scale shootings at social gatherings that lack formal oversight or security,” Dr. Carver explained. “They’re often promoted via social media with no real accountability. Combine that with the proliferation of firearms and a culture of retaliation, and you have a volatile mix.”

She emphasized that prevention must go beyond reactive policing. “We need targeted intervention strategies, community-based outreach, youth mentorship programs, and economic investment in underserved areas. These are not quick fixes, but they are necessary if we want to disrupt these patterns.”

Moving Forward: City Promises Action, Families Demand Justice

Mayor Charles Griggs addressed the public late Tuesday, expressing condolences and pledging to take immediate action.

“We will not allow this tragedy to define Conway,” Griggs said. “We owe it to Tatayana, Demetrius, and every injured victim to strengthen our systems, demand accountability, and ensure this never happens again.”

Meanwhile, both the Penister and Feemster families are preparing to lay their loved ones to rest — but not without demanding justice.

“They were more than victims. They were lives full of promise,” said Alicia Penister, Tatayana’s mother. “We won’t stop speaking out until those responsible are behind bars.”