LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Little Rock community is reeling after the violent death of 36-year-old Michelle Butler, a beloved Little Rock School District employee, who was killed outside the Rockefeller Early Childhood Center on Wednesday. Court records filed Thursday have shed disturbing new details about the incident, as investigators piece together what happened in the moments leading up to her death. Police say 29-year-old Duane Nooner has been arrested and charged with capital murder in connection with her death.
Court documents and police reports reveal harrowing details. Detectives said surveillance footage from the area showed a black sedan with a spare tire on the front left wheel running over Butler several times. The driver, later identified as Nooner, was then seen exiting the vehicle, retrieving a pistol from Butler’s nearby car, and firing multiple shots at her.
The shocking attack occurred near an elementary school, sparking alarm among parents and staff who were stunned by the violence so close to children’s learning spaces.
Police said they were able to locate and apprehend Nooner within 30 minutes of Butler’s death. After identifying his car through surveillance video, officers broadcasted the description to patrol units. The sedan, which records show was registered to Nooner and another man, was spotted at a local gas station.
When approached by police, Nooner attempted to flee on foot but was quickly detained. Officers noted that he was wearing the same clothing seen on surveillance video. After being taken into custody, Nooner reportedly waived his Miranda rights and confessed to running over Butler with his car, then shooting her. He told detectives he discarded the firearm as he fled the scene.
In court Thursday, Nooner entered a not guilty plea to the charge of capital murder. He is currently being held at the Pulaski County Regional Detention Facility without bond, with his next court appearance scheduled for October 20.
The Little Rock School District has not yet released a formal statement, but colleagues and community members are already remembering Butler as a dedicated and respected employee who had a positive impact on students and staff alike. Her sudden and violent death has left the district and community shaken, with many calling for justice as her family and friends grieve the loss of a life cut short.
This tragedy marks yet another devastating incident of gun violence in the Little Rock area, underscoring the lasting impact such acts leave on families, schools, and neighborhoods.
Michelle Butler’s memory now lives on in the countless lives she touched as a school district employee, and her death serves as a somber reminder of the urgent need for community support, healing, and justice.
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