Local farmer arrested in murdered US nurse jogger case

Arkansas police have arrested a farmer after a young nurse mysteriously vanished while jogging, and her body was found three days later.

Authorities eventually discovered the body of Sydney Sutherland, 25, near her home in Jackson County.

Police on Saturday arrested local farmer Quake Lewellyn, 28, on suspicion of capital murder.

Investigators and hundreds of volunteers scoured the area where Ms Sutherland went on a jog after she did not return home on Wednesday.

The worst was feared when Ms Sutherland's mobile phone about half a kilometre from her home.

The Arkansas State Crime Lab identified Ms Sutherland through DNA evidence, police said during a media briefing.

Sheriff Lucas told local news station KAIT 8 the case was particularly difficult, as Ms Sutherland was well-known in the community.

"It's taken a toll, it really has," the sheriff said.

"Just because I know the people of this county. I know this family personally. I know this young lady personally. I've known her and watched her grow up. It hits me personally."

Mr Lewellyn is said to have known Ms Sutherland.

Her cause of death has not yet been confirmed.

Mr Lewellyn is expected to appear in court for a bond hearing and arraignment this week.

After Ms Sutherland's phone was located, telecommunications company AT&T had searched for pings from her phone and Apple Watch.

Sniffer dogs and a chopper had also been involved in the search.

A UPS delivery driver said he had spotted Ms Sutherland running on Wednesday afternoon, which may have been the last time she was seen alive by anyone other than the murderer.