Spring River sinkhole that claimed Arkansan's life is growing

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FULTON COUNTY, Ark. (KATV) — The sinkhole that killed a man along the Spring River in Fulton County is growing, according to Commissioner of State Lands John Thurston.

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The commissioner met with several stakeholders Thursday afternoon at the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and says several agencies are working to "address both the immediate safety concerns and whether a long-term solution exists to avoid this issue in the future." Read the commissioner's full statement below:

The Commissioner of State Lands’ office is involved with the matter of the 'sinkhole' on the Spring River due to state ownership of the riverbed. This matter is of the utmost importance and urgency, as evidenced by the very tragic loss of life recently. The matter is compounded by the anticipated increase of traffic due to the upcoming holiday. Our office has coordinated, and will continue to coordinate, with stakeholders to evaluate the present condition of the river, and to address both the immediate safety concerns and whether a long term solution exists to avoid this issue in the future. Various state agencies and offices are participating in this process. Our office has engaged a professional to evaluate and consult on this matter. This process is scheduled to begin Monday morning. We will provide updates as necessary.

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