Remains found 36 years ago identified as Vilonia man

VILONIA, Ark. — Arkansas State Police have identified the remains of a man found in White County 36 years ago as 30-year-old Karl Hooten

ASP authorities said that the remains had been unidentified since they were initially discovered in April of 1989 near Swinging Bridge Road in Antioch. 

An autopsy revealed that the victim had been shot. Then, in 2024, ASP submitted the DNA to the Othram forensic lab in Woodlands, Texas, where scientists worked to develop a comprehensive DNA profile.

In January 2025, results from the testing indicated a potential familial DNA match with the unidentified victim. 

After conducting interviews and collecting additional familial DNA samples, officials were able to successfully identify the victim as Hooten.

The White County Sheriff’s Office and state police are continuing to investigate this case. Anyone who knew Hooten or has information about him or his death should call ASP at (870) 931-0043 or the White County Sheriff’s Office at (501) 279-6279.