Family friend of teen killed in Pope County in 2021 speaks out after suspect named | KLRT

POPE COUNTY, Arkansas – Pope County authorities have filed charges against an inmate in connection with the 2021 death of a 17-year-old.

Esperanza West is a close friend of the family of 17-year-old Savana Elliot, whose body was found in the Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge in October 2021.

“She was 17 and will now remain 17 forever,” West said.

She said the number 17 will always strike a chord with Elliot’s friends and family.

“That’s basically what the hashtag ‘Forever 17’ means,” West said.

With every memory posted on social media, they use the hashtag to honor her.

West said Elliot was an all-around happy person.

“She was always very excited, excited and loved everyone,” West said.

Authorities in Pope County filed felony charges in connection with her death against Stephen Watson, 40, who had already been in the custody of the Arkansas Department of Corrections since 2022 on other charges.

“I feel like it will never be enough because it’s not fair that he stays alive and she doesn’t,” West said.

She said we will always remember Elliot.

“I still include them in everything I do and wherever I go,” West said.

West said the new charges were a long-awaited step toward peace and an end to the conflict.

“It has definitely been a very long journey and there is still a long way to go,” West said.

Officials say Watson’s arraignment is scheduled for 9 a.m. June 21 in Pope County.