Michael Littles

Michael Undra Littles, known for his quiet demeanor and warm, helpful spirit, was a man who brought joy to those who knew him. The 62-year-old Black male from Little Rock, Arkansas, was born on August 2, 1960, and was raised in the Catholic church. Remembered as someone who would go out of his way to help anyone, Michael had a gift for making people feel adored and never met a stranger. He made it a mission to be the first to call his loved ones on their birthdays. He cherished his family, including his mother, daughter, brothers, and sisters, and his presence could light up an entire room. Those who knew him said he was easy-going and likable, and he worked as a handyman in the Little Rock area.

The morning of September 21, 2021, began like any other in the busy commercial district of North Little Rock. But at approximately 6:41 a.m., the parking lot of the McDonald’s at 4008 McCain Boulevard was shattered by the sound of gunfire. North Little Rock Police Department officers responded to multiple calls and arrived to find a tragic scene. Inside a vehicle, they discovered Michael Littles, who had been shot and was deceased. He was the driver of the car. Two other people had been in the vehicle with him; one passenger had also sustained a gunshot wound and was transported to a local hospital with what were described as non-life-threatening injuries. The third individual in the car was physically unharmed.

The North Little Rock Police Department immediately launched a homicide investigation, with detectives from its Crimes Against Persons unit leading the case. They processed the scene for evidence and began seeking information from the public. Within a few days, the investigation pointed to a primary suspect. On September 24, 2021, authorities publicly identified 19-year-old Javian Sprinkle as the person they believed was responsible for the deadly shooting. The police announced that warrants had been issued for Sprinkle's arrest on charges of first-degree murder and attempted murder. They noted that Sprinkle was known to frequent areas in Little Rock and Pine Bluff and cautioned that he should be considered armed and dangerous.

The search for Sprinkle continued as the case moved forward. The investigation by the North Little Rock Police Department eventually led to his apprehension, and he was brought into the custody of the justice system in Pulaski County. The case proceeded through the courts, culminating in a resolution more than two years after Michael Littles' death.

In December 2023, Javian Sprinkle was convicted for the killing of Michael Littles. Following his conviction, the legal proceedings concluded, marking the official closure of the case that began with a burst of violence on a Tuesday morning. The conviction brought a measure of justice for the family and friends of Michael Littles, a man remembered for his mission to bring joy to every person who crossed his path and who is still deeply missed by his community.