Linden Torchia investigated in fatal shooting near Malvern

Linden Torchia faces an investigation following a fatal shooting near Malvern, officials said. The incident left his 31-year-old son dead on Sept. 28. Hot Spring County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded around 7 p.m. to the 300 block of Bayne Road. They were answering a report of gunfire.

Special agents with the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division are investigating the case alongside county deputies. Witnesses said the 70-year-old father was trying to help his son, Michael Torchia, jump-start a vehicle. An argument began during the encounter.

The elder Torchia told investigators that the younger man started arguing during the roadside help. Michael Torchia then struck the window of his father’s vehicle. Officials said he used jumper cables and another unknown metal object. Torchia then fired a weapon. The gunshot struck his son in the chest, according to authorities.

The Hot Spring County Coroner pronounced the younger man dead at the Malvern area scene. His body was transported to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory. Medical examiners will determine an official cause and manner of death. No arrest has been made.

State and county agencies typically examine evidence from fatal shootings to determine whether criminal charges are warranted. Case files are submitted to prosecutors for final review.

The investigation remains ongoing, according to officials. Investigators have released no other information at this time.