The Pine Bluff Police Department’s annual National Night Out event once again brought the community together at the Pine Bluff Convention Center on Tuesday, fostering stronger relationships between residents and law enforcement. The event drew hundreds of residents from 6-9 p.m.
Matt Peskin established National Night Out in the western suburbs of Philadelphia, and it has been held annually since 1984. According to the National Night Out website, the National Association of Town Watch sponsors the event in the United States. Initially, National Night Out simply involved neighbors turning on their porch lights and sitting in front of their homes. The first event included 2.5 million residents in 400 communities across 23 states. By 2016, National Night Out engaged 38 million residents in 16,000 communities throughout the United States.
This year’s gathering in Pine Bluff held particular significance for longtime attendee Carmen Bell, who shared her heartfelt connection to the event and its profound personal meaning.
For Bell, National Night Out is more than just a community gathering; it’s a cherished tradition spanning over 15 years. “This national night … it means a lot to me,” she stated, recalling how she first started attending when she was in high school.
Bell emphasized the event’s crucial role in bridging the gap between the community and law enforcement, a sentiment deeply rooted in personal experience. Her brother, the late PBPD Detective Kevin Collins, she explained, “gave his life to this community,” making National Night Out a “very, very important” occasion for her.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Collins, 35, a five-year veteran of the department, was pronounced deceased at Jefferson Regional Medical Center following an exchange of gunfire at a motel on Oct. 5, 2020. KeShone Smith was found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to 35 years in prison.
Collins, along with two other officers, were met with gunfire as they arrived at the Econo Lodge Motel. The officers were at the location in connection with an ongoing local criminal investigation.
The event, while acknowledging solemn memories, is ultimately a source of joy and unity for Bell. “It brings back a lot of great memories,” she shared. “So this event is not a sad event. It’s actually a happy event, seeing my brother’s picture, seeing other officers … with the youth and just the community is a great feeling.”
Among the many fond memories, Bell highlighted her brother’s past involvement as McGruff the Crime Dog. She expressed her happiness at the news of McGruff’s return.
“My brother would be here at this particular event as McGruff,” she said. She also recalled her stepdad, a retired law enforcement officer, who would often be present, alongside members of the sheriff’s office. These elements, she explained, “just bring back great memories.”
Interim Police Chief Shirley Warrior emphasized the importance of the nationwide initiative, which traditionally takes place on the first Tuesday of August, as a means of fostering unity and collaboration.
“Its purpose is to bring communities and law enforcement together to fight crime,” she said.
The atmosphere of the Pine Bluff Convention Center was vibrant and festive, with a wide array of activities and treats offered completely free of charge to all attendees. Families enjoyed popcorn and cotton candy while music blared through the speakers. Children were delighted by bounce houses, and more than 42 local vendors participated, generously giving away items.
In addition to the free amenities, the event kept attendees engaged with door prizes awarded every 30 minutes and a K-9 demonstration by the Jefferson County sheriff’s office. Elders in the community enjoyed their own special entertainment, featuring bingo games that offered exciting prizes and provided a comfortable and enjoyable space for them to socialize.
Warrior took the opportunity to address the community, urging residents to continue their active participation in crime prevention. She emphasized that citizens are essential for maintaining a safe environment. “It does make a difference when you do call 911 or you hear a gunshot, or you hear something,” she said. “If you see something, say something, please.”
She reiterated that safety is a shared responsibility. “This is a battle for all of us; we all live here, but we all want to be a safe community,” she said.
National Night Out continues to be a vital initiative in Pine Bluff, strengthening community bonds and honoring those who have dedicated their lives to public service, according to Warrior. Emotional testimonials from residents, such as Carmen Bell, highlight the significant role these events play in building community trust and a shared sense of purpose.
“National Night Out in Pine Bluff shows how much a community and its police can achieve when they work together to create a safer, stronger place for everyone,” said Warrior. “It is a clear example of the good things that happen when we all team up.”
