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Fort Smith proclaims July 21 as Officer Cal Newman Day after in‑line‑of‑duty shooting

Fort Smith City Board of Directors · July 26, 2026

Summary

The Fort Smith Board of Directors presented a proclamation on July 21 recognizing Officer Cal Newman for being critically wounded while investigating a suspected DWI on May 1, 2026, and celebrated his recovery and service to the community.

Mayor George B. McGill presented a city proclamation honoring Officer Cal Newman for “extraordinary courage, resilience, and determination” after Newman was critically wounded while responding to a driving‑while‑intoxicated investigation on May 1, 2026. McGill proclaimed July 21, 2026, “Officer Cal Newman Day” in Fort Smith.

In front of the board and assembled first responders, community members and family, the mayor read language recognizing Newman’s service and recovery. As the proclamation noted, Newman joined the Fort Smith Police Department on 01/27/2025 and “demonstrated unwavering strength and perseverance” during his recovery. A member of the clergy offered a brief invocation before the presentation.

Board members spoke in support as officers and first responders in the audience were acknowledged. Director Rigo and Director Neil Martin joined in thanking Newman; one board member said the officer’s “tremendously heroic story will inspire us forever.” The board asked attendees to recognize Newman a final time before proceeding to other business.

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