The Independence County Sheriff’s Office stated in a press release that officers responded to a call on Friday reporting the Thida Post Office (rural Independence County) being open, but no one was inside.
Deputies discovered the building was unattended, but the postmaster’s vehicle was still at the building.
Because of a recent history between the postmaster, identified by authorities as Teresa Melvard, and her husband, identified by authorities as Jerry Melvard, a cell phone number was obtained and a phone ping was started by authorities.
The phones location determined by the phone ping led officers to an abandoned house where they made contact with the husband, Jerry Melvard.
Melvard had requested an ambulance for his wife due to a gunshot injury according to the release.
Negotiations were underway between Chief Deputy Aaron Moody and Jerry to get him to surrender and to release Teresa.
During negotiations, Jerry Melvard requested to speak directly with Sheriff Shawn Stephens of Independence County.
The Sheriff went into the residence and spoke with Jerry in an effort to get Teresa released.
A short time later, Teresa was escorted out of the home and transported to a hospital for treatment of her injuries.
Jerry was arrested and transported to the Independence County Detention Facility.
The Independence County Sheriff’s Office is working in conjunction with the Federal Postal Inspectors and the Arkansas State Police.