Arkansas Man Accused of Killing Husband with Screwdrivers Told Jailers ‘I Miss Him,’ Pleads Not Guilty

Arkansas Man Accused of Killing Husband with Screwdrivers Told Jailers ‘I Miss Him,’ Pleads Not Guilty

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An Arkansas man accused of fatally stabbing his husband during a camping trip has pleaded not guilty to the charge. The case, which prosecutors say involves a violent fight fueled by drugs, has shocked the community.

The Charges

Gregory Steven Whitt Jr., 39, is facing one count of first-degree murder in the death of his husband, Kevin Whitt, formerly known as Kevin Pennington. He entered a not guilty plea during a hearing in a Crawford County courtroom this week.

The Incident in the Woods

The killing took place on August 20 near Van Buren, Arkansas, a small city close to the Oklahoma border. Deputies were called to Catcher Road after reports of a possible dead body and foul play.

At the campsite, investigators found food, drinks, blankets, and backpacks scattered about. Roughly 100 feet away, they discovered Kevin Whitt’s body. He was covered in blood on his head, face, neck, and hands.

Blood stains were also visible on a nearby tree. Two Phillips-head screwdrivers, both coated in blood, were found next to his body.

The Defendant’s Alleged Confession

The following day, Gregory Whitt allegedly confessed while at the Crawford County Detention Center. According to an affidavit, he told jailers: “I miss him … I killed him … it was over drugs.”

Investigators say Whitt explained that an argument over drugs turned violent. He claimed Kevin struck him first, and in response, he grabbed tools and attempted to stab his husband in the temple multiple times. He also admitted to choking Kevin, saying: “I flat-out choked him out.”

Witness Accounts

A witness later told police they saw the couple together in the woods the night before the body was found. They also reported hearing a struggle and shouting, which investigators now believe was the fatal confrontation.

Court Proceedings and Bond

Whitt is currently being held on a $1 million bond. He is represented by a public defender and is due back in court for a status conference in February.

The case of Gregory and Kevin Whitt shows how a night meant for camping turned into a deadly tragedy. While Gregory has pleaded not guilty, investigators say his alleged confession and the evidence at the scene point to a brutal act of violence.

With the trial ahead, the court will determine whether this was a crime of passion, fueled by drugs and conflict, or something more deliberate.

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