HOT SPRINGS, Ark. — A late-night shooting in Hot Springs has left one man dead and another facing a murder charge following an altercation that investigators say escalated into deadly violence.

According to the Hot Springs Police Department, officers responded to reports of shots fired at approximately 11:48 p.m. Friday in the area of Carl Drive. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered 45-year-old Nathan Lynch suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.

Emergency personnel attempted to provide aid, but Lynch was pronounced dead at the scene.

Detectives immediately launched a homicide investigation, securing the area and gathering evidence while interviewing witnesses. Preliminary findings indicated that Lynch and 34-year-old Jace Dickey had been involved in a dispute shortly before the shooting occurred.

As investigators worked through witness statements and physical evidence, Dickey was identified as the primary suspect in the case. Following further investigation and questioning, he was taken into custody and charged with first-degree murder.

Dickey was transported to the Garland County Detention Center, where he remains in custody pending court proceedings.

Authorities have not released details regarding the nature of the argument that preceded the shooting, and investigators continue to examine the circumstances that led to the fatal encounter. Police have also not indicated whether any additional individuals were involved in the incident.

The death of Nathan Lynch has left family members, friends, and members of the Hot Springs community mourning a life lost to violence. As loved ones cope with the tragedy, investigators continue working to establish a complete timeline of events and determine what factors contributed to the deadly confrontation.

Law enforcement officials are reviewing witness accounts, forensic evidence, and other investigative findings as the case moves forward through the criminal justice system.

Anyone with information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Hot Springs Police Department.

The investigation remains ongoing, and additional details are expected to be released as they become available.