A 36-year-old father from Arkansas was arrested for shooting a man who was found driving with his 14-year-old daughter, who had been missing. The father, Aaron Spencer, was taken into custody on suspicion of first-degree murder in the shooting of Michael Fosler, 67, according to Lonoke County Sheriff John Staley. However, a local gun rights group believes the shooting was an act of self-defense. The girl’s mother stated that Fosler had groomed and raped her daughter.
The sheriff mentioned that the investigation is still ongoing and it will be up to the prosecutors to decide whether to formally charge Spencer. The Lonoke County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office did not respond to requests for comment. As of now, no criminal charges have been filed against Spencer.
Fosler had been charged with at least one felony in Lonoke County in September, related to internet stalking of a child and sexual assault. He had pleaded not guilty and was set to go on trial in December. Fosler’s attorney argued that there was no probable cause for his arrest and accused authorities of acting unlawfully. Heather Spencer, Aaron’s wife, shared that Fosler had a no-contact order against him regarding their daughter.
Heather mentioned that their daughter went missing, prompting Aaron to search for her. By chance, he came across Fosler with their daughter in his vehicle. A confrontation occurred which led to the fatal shooting of Fosler. Heather defended her husband’s actions, stating that he did what was necessary to protect their daughter and himself.
Aaron Spencer was charged with a class Y felony, which could result in a minimum of 10 years to life in prison according to Arkansas law. He was released on bond, but Heather expressed dissatisfaction with how the situation was handled. She emphasized that their daughter is a victim and the family has a long road to recovery.
Sheriff Staley expressed his support for the girl’s mother, acknowledging her pain and fear. He emphasized his stance against predators, highlighting his role as a father with three daughters. Gun Owners of Arkansas and the Spencer’s attorneys chose not to provide comments on the case.
