On 7/14/2019 at approximately 12:00 AM, Poinsett County Sheriff's Deputies were dispatched to 8699 Northwood Ln., Harrisburg, in reference to a stabbing. 

 

Upon their arrival, deputies found 22 year old Jacob Bezzard of Harrisburg with a stab wound. He was transported from the scene by medics to be flown to Memphis Regional One Medical Center.  He was initially in critical condition but has improved since to serious condition.  

 

Ronnie Byrd Jr., 39 years old and resident of 8699 Northwood Ln., was taken into custody that night and transported to the Poinsett County Detention Center.

 

During the investigation, it was determined that Bezzard had broken into the home twice and attacked both Ronnie Byrd and his juvenile son with a large rock. Bezzard initially came into the house through a window in the living room and the family was able to get him outside of the house. He then came back into the house through the front door. Both times he was armed with a rock and was attacking both male subjects in the home. After the second entry into the home, Ronnie Byrd then cut Bezzard with a knife to stop Bezzard's attack.  Both Ronnie Byrd and his son sustained injuries on and about their heads due to Bezzard's attacks.

 

After consulting with the 2nd Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney's Office, charges will not be filed against Ronnie Byrd for Battery 1st degree based on Arkansas statute 5-2-607 which allows a person to use deadly physical force in defense of themselves or another person. Byrd has been released from jail.

 

Bezzard remains in the hospital where he continues to be treated for his wounds.