A Marvell man was killed Friday, February 13, 2026, in a head-on collision on US Highway 49 near Poplar Grove in Phillips County, according to the Arkansas State Police.
James Early, 68, was pronounced dead following the crash, which occurred at approximately 9:30 p.m. near mile marker 11262 on US Highway 49. Early was driving a 2014 Hyundai Elantra southbound in the northbound lane when his vehicle struck a 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe traveling northbound.
Weather conditions at the time of the crash were clear, and the road surface was dry, according to the crash report. Early was transported to Regional One Medical Center following the collision. His body is being held at the Phillips County Morgue.
The Arkansas State Police is investigating the crash. No information regarding the occupants of the Chevrolet Tahoe was immediately available.
This report is based on preliminary information from the Arkansas State Police. The investigation is ongoing.