Man Sentenced to 75 Years for First-Degree Murder, Arson in Death of Tonya Marie Liggin

Bruce Cockrell has been sentenced to 75 years in prison after pleading guilty this week to first-degree murder and arson involving property valued between $2,500 and $5,000. Cockrell entered the negotiated plea while represented by attorneys Jeff Harrelson and Anthony Biddle.

Before sentencing, the victim’s sister, Nichole Smith, addressed both the court and the man who killed her younger sister, Tonya Marie Liggin. Fighting back tears, she described the immense grief her family has endured since Tonya’s death. In an unexpected turn, Smith told Cockrell she forgave him, explaining that she could no longer carry the burden of hatred that had weighed on her since the tragedy.

Circuit Judge Duncan Culpepper then imposed the agreed-upon sentence: 45 years in prison for first-degree murder, followed by 30 years for arson, to be served consecutively. Cockrell is 48 years old.

The case began on July 8, 2024, when Hempstead County Sheriff’s Deputy Kyle Malone and Sergeant Derrick Bunn responded to a structure fire in Fulton. Tonya Liggin was transported to Christus St. Michael in Texarkana with severe burns. There, she told medical staff that Cockrell had doused her with weed-eater fuel and set her on fire. She later died from her injuries at the burn unit at Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Captain Justin Crane of the Hempstead County Sheriff’s Office led the investigation.

Following the sentencing, Nichole Smith offered a statement on behalf of her family, expressing gratitude for the resolution of the case.

“We are grateful for the outcome of this case and believe that justice has been served for our beloved Tonya,” Smith said. “Our family extends our deepest appreciation to Ben Hale and the entire Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for their unwavering dedication, professionalism, and compassion throughout this process. While no verdict can bring Tonya back, we find comfort knowing that her voice was heard and that accountability has been achieved. We will continue to honor Tonya’s memory and focus on healing together as a family.”