The body of missing Arkansas real estate agent Beverly Carter was found early Tuesday in a shallow grave north of Little Rock, according to the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office and as reported by several news services this morning.
Carter, 49, went missing last Thursday after telling co-workers she was going to meet a potential buyer at a property in Scott, Arkansas.
According to reports, the suspect, Arron M. Lewis, 33, who was arrested Monday on charges of kidnapping, will now face capital murder charges. Lt. Carl Minden of the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office told ABC News that Lewis admitted to kidnapping but not the slaying and did not provide any details about Carter’s whereabouts.
Lewis pleaded not guilty today on the charges of capital murder, robbery and kidnapping and is being held on $1 million bail. According to reports, the suspect spoke to reporters as he was being taken from the jail to the sheriff’s office Monday, and when asked why Carter was targeted, responded “Because she was just a woman that worked alone – a rich broker.”
Safety is a crucial aspect of the business that should be top of mind to every industry practitioner. There are several ways agents can incorporate safety precautions when showing a home. “In situations like this, whenever possible take a partner with you,” says Tim Powell, a detective with the Greenwich, Conn. Police Department. “Always know who you’re dealing with. If you can meet in a public place and go to that showing together from there, that’s also a good idea.”
Read more of these important safety precautions here.
