Taylor Elkins. Autographed Letter, Signed. Handwritten, Baronial 6 Bar (4.75 × 6.5 envelope). Newport, AR. April 19, 2025. Content unknown. SEALED.

In July 2019, 72-year-old retired substitute teacher William DuBois Jr. was found brutally murdered in his Fort Smith, Arkansas home. The investigation led to the arrest of 21-year-old Taylor Cynthia Elkins, who was discovered driving DuBois's car shortly after his death. Elkins pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and was sentenced to 40 years in prison. This case shocked the local community, highlighting issues of trust and the potential dangers faced by vulnerable individuals.​

A Quiet Man's Violent End: The Murder of William DuBois Jr.

On July 11, 2019, the Fort Smith Police Department responded to a welfare check at the duplex of William DuBois Jr., a respected 72-year-old retired teacher known for his decades of service in the Fort Smith Public Schools. Inside, officers discovered DuBois's lifeless body, the victim of a brutal assault. An autopsy later confirmed that he had been beaten to death with a hammer.​

The investigation quickly focused on Taylor Cynthia Elkins, a 21-year-old woman with a history of legal troubles, including multiple arrests since 2017 for charges ranging from theft to battery. Elkins had been staying with her grandfather in the same duplex complex as DuBois. On the evening of July 11, police located Elkins driving DuBois's red 2013 Ford Focus. Initially, she claimed that an unidentified man had given her the car, but later changed her story, stating that DuBois had given her the vehicle in exchange for sexual favors. These inconsistent statements, coupled with her possession of the victim's car, led to her arrest on charges of hindering apprehension and theft by receiving. Subsequent evidence and investigation resulted in her being charged with first-degree murder.​

On January 16, 2020, as part of a plea agreement, Elkins pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and was sentenced to 40 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections. Under Arkansas law, she must serve at least 70% of her sentence—approximately 28 years—before becoming eligible for parole. During the sentencing, Elkins offered no apology or explanation for her actions. DuBois's family, seeking to avoid the emotional toll of a trial, agreed to the plea deal. His wife, Susan DuBois, expressed a desire for closure, stating, "I don't hate her, I can't hate her, I believe in God, and God has seen us through."

The murder of William DuBois Jr. sent shockwaves through the Fort Smith community. Known for his dedication to education and his involvement with the Knights of Columbus, DuBois had touched many lives during his 30 years as a teacher and 16 years as a substitute. His death left a void, particularly among students and colleagues who remembered his commitment and kindness. The case also raised concerns about the safety of elderly individuals and the importance of community vigilance.

Currently, Taylor Elkins is incarcerated in the Arkansas Department of Corrections. There is no public information indicating her participation in rehabilitation programs or any expressions of remorse. Given the severity of her crime and her prior criminal history, authorities consider her a continued risk, particularly concerning manipulative behavior.​

The tragic end of the life of William DuBois Jr. serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that can arise even in seemingly safe communities. It underscores the need for awareness, support for vulnerable populations, and the importance of addressing underlying issues that can lead to such violent acts.​

In the realm of true crime memorabilia, items associated with Taylor Elkins—such as court documents or personal letters—may hold interest for collectors due to their rarity and the notoriety of the case. However, it's essential to approach such interests with sensitivity, considering the pain endured by the victim's family and community.

VIDEO: Student Kills Her Teacher, Thinks She Can Get Away With It | https://youtu.be/gFL1WMMGUiU

Archiving Protocol:

• Handled with White Gloves ab initio

• Photo Pages/Sheet Protectors: Heavyweight Clear Sheet Protectors, Acid Free & Archival Safe, 8.5 × 11, Top Load

• White Backing Board – Acid Free

Shipping/Packaging: Rigid Mailer 9.5 × 12.5. White, self-seal, stay-flat, Kraft cardboard, no bend. Each rigid mailer is made of heavy cardboard, which has strong resistance to bending and tearing. Thicker that the USPS mailers. Shipping cost never more than it absolutely has to be to get it from me to you.