Conway Police Respond to Active Incident at Lewis Crossing Shopping Center

Update: On April 6, 2024, Officers with the Conway Police Department responded to Massage Envy at 1040 South Amity Road in response to a call for service about a subject who had driven their vehicle into the business. Officers arrived and found an armed male who barricaded himself in a room. No one was reported injured at the time.

The SWAT and Negotiations Teams responded to the incident and while talking with the subject he fired at officers who then returned fire, striking the subject.

Hostage situation at Massage Envy, situated within the Lewis Crossing Shopping Center in Conway. The suspect has been identified as James Lee McDaniel, who is allegedly making threats towards his wife, Christina McDaniel. pic.twitter.com/xhAhoiA3RD

— Channel3 Now (@channel3nownews) April 6, 2024

Medical care was started immediately, and the subject was transported to a local hospital, where he later died. No officers were injured during the exchange of gunfire.

The Arkansas State Police have been asked to investigate the incident. Some officers involved in the incident were placed on administrative leave pending the investigation.

The suspect has been identified as James Lee McDaniel, who is allegedly making threats towards his wife, Christina McDaniel. Christina serves as the manager at Massage Envy, situated within the Lewis Crossing Shopping Center in Conway.

Earlier this morning, James collided their vehicle with Massage Envy at the Lewis Crossing Shopping Center in Conway. The store was empty, with James being the sole occupant. Gunshots have been discharged, but fortunately, there have been no reported injuries at this time.

The suspect posted on Facebook, stating, “Everyone wants to know what’s on my mind, taking my family and a disloyal wife. Everyone, take a look at Massage Envy and the manager in Conway, Arkansas, Christina McDaniel, who is known for maintaining great relationships in the massage group. She can’t seem to remain faithful in her own.”

He further stated, “Here we are, Chrissy, at Massage Envy, where you enjoy spending time in the office. Locked and loaded, cops are here with their guns pointed at me, as if they think there’s any real danger. You’re safe, dude. It’s over for me. You thought it was a joke? After 17 years, you just walk away that easily? I don’t think so. That life isn’t for me.”

The Lewis Crossing Shopping Center, situated on South Amity Road in Conway, is found just off Dave Ward Drive and to the east of Interstate 40. Among its establishments are Massage Envy, Academy Sports and Outdoors, and Ross Dress for Less.

Police ask public to please stay out of the area.

This is a developing story that will be updated when more information is available.