A Pocahontas woman was arrested in the death of former state Sen. Linda Collins, authorities said Friday night.
Rebecca Lynn O’Donnell, 48, of Pocahontas was in custody, according to a news release from Arkansas State Police. Authorities said that criminal charges are pending.
The agency worked with Randolph County sheriff’s deputies and the Third Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney’s Office on the arrest.
State police said the investigation was at a "critical juncture" and that no further information would be released "until authorities are confident it will not comprise the integrity of the criminal case."
In a statement, Collins' family members said they are "sickened and upset that someone so close to Linda, would be involved in such a terrible, heartless crime."
"The family is very confident that the Randolph County Sheriff's Department and the Arkansas State Police will continue to work diligently to bring justice to this case," the statement continued. "We would like to thank everyone for the continued prayers and thoughts for our family during this difficult time."
Collins, 57, was found dead at her home at 4023 W. Arkansas 90 in Pocahontas on June 4.
A gag order was issued in the case June 5, preventing the release of major material in the investigation, including law enforcement and medical reports.
Authorities released no additional information about how the former state senator died.
Read Saturday's Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for full details.