Fort Smith, Arkansas – Police in Fort Smith have identified a suspect in a bank robbery reported Tuesday afternoon along Rogers Avenue and are warning the public that the individual should be considered armed and extremely dangerous. Authorities say an arrest warrant has been issued as investigators continue efforts to locate the suspect.
Incident Overview
The robbery occurred at approximately 3:39 p.m. on January 20, 2026, at a bank located in the 5200 block of Rogers Avenue in Fort Smith, Arkansas. According to investigators, a lone male suspect entered the bank carrying what appeared to be a pistol before fleeing the scene shortly after the incident.
No injuries were reported during the robbery, and bank employees and customers were not physically harmed.
Timeline of Events
Police responded to the robbery call shortly after it was reported Tuesday afternoon. Officers quickly began canvassing the area and collecting initial witness statements while detectives launched a follow-up investigation.
Later that evening, Fort Smith police announced that an arrest warrant had been issued after identifying the suspect believed to be responsible for the robbery.
Suspect Identified by Police
Authorities have identified the suspect as Aljon Smith, a resident of Oklahoma City. Police say Smith is believed to have fled the area in a gray Kia Forte bearing Oklahoma license plate RIX017.
Police emphasized that Aljon Smith should be considered armed and extremely dangerous, urging the public not to approach him if spotted.
“The suspect is believed to be armed and should not be confronted by members of the public,” police said in a statement.
Vehicle Description and Escape Route
Investigators believe the suspect fled westbound on Rogers Avenue immediately following the robbery. The vehicle involved is described as a gray Kia Forte, a compact sedan that may draw attention due to the specific license tag information released by authorities.
Police are asking residents and businesses in the area to review security and surveillance footage that may have captured the vehicle before or after the incident.
Ongoing Investigation
Detectives are continuing to gather evidence, including surveillance video from the bank and nearby businesses. Officials say additional information will be released as it becomes available and appropriate.
According to a Fort Smith Police Department announcement, investigators are working diligently to track the suspect’s movements and coordinate with other law enforcement agencies across state lines.
Public Safety Advisory
Because the suspect is believed to be armed, police are stressing the importance of public caution. Residents are advised to avoid any direct contact with the suspect and instead report sightings immediately to law enforcement.
Bank robberies involving firearms pose a serious risk not only to employees and customers but also to bystanders and responding officers. Police urge anyone with information to prioritize safety and allow trained professionals to handle the situation.
How the Public Can Help
Authorities are asking anyone with information related to the robbery, the suspect’s whereabouts, or the vehicle involved to contact law enforcement immediately. Tips from the public can be crucial in helping investigators locate suspects quickly and prevent further incidents.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Fort Smith Police Department at 479-709-5000.
Conclusion
Fort Smith police continue to actively investigate the Rogers Avenue bank robbery as they search for Aljon Smith, who is considered armed and dangerous. Officials urge the public to remain alert, avoid confrontation, and report any relevant information to authorities as the investigation unfolds.
If you have information that could help investigators or have noticed suspicious activity related to this case, contact police immediately. Share your experiences in the comments below.
