In the News: Mother Seeks Justice After Son’s Death at Southeast Arkansas Human Development Center

WARREN, AR — The Gillispie Law Firm has filed a new wrongful death case on behalf of Angela Stephens, the mother of 21-year-old Zachary Moore, who died last month while in state care at the Southeast Arkansas Human Development Center in Warren.

According to the death certificate, Zachary’s death was ruled a homicide. A report from the Arkansas Department of Human Services states that he was restrained face-down for approximately 13 minutes after allegedly attempting to bite a staff member. During the restraint, Zachary became unresponsive, and staff later administered a chemical injection.

Zachary’s mother, Angela Stephens, shared her story publicly in a recent interview with THV11, recorded at Gillispie Law Firm’s Little Rock office. She described her son as a happy, loving young man who had the mental capacity of a five-year-old and loved arts and crafts, tractors, and family time.

“I want accountability. I want justice. I want reform—because this should never have happened to my child or any other resident in these facilities,” Stephens said. “My son mattered. He’s not just a name and a file.”

Attorney Josh Gillispie, who represents Ms. Stephens, said the firm is currently focused on gathering all critical facts and documentation surrounding Zachary’s death.

“This is an unthinkable tragedy,” Gillispie said. “The state has a duty to protect vulnerable residents under its care. When that duty is violated, families deserve answers and accountability.”

A total of eleven employees have been placed on administrative leave, and one was terminated following the incident.

Ms. Stephens continues to speak out to help ensure that what happened to Zachary never happens to another family.

Read the full story from THV11: 👉 Shocked by the answers’ | Mom grieving her son who died in Arkansas care facility

About the Gillispie Law Firm

The Gillispie Law Firm represents survivors and families in cases involving wrongful death, abuse, and neglect in residential treatment centers and state-run care facilities across Arkansas. The firm is based in Little Rock and is dedicated to fighting for justice for the most vulnerable.