Mitchel Smith, age 35, was killed on January 1, 2017, in the Bayview neighborhood of San Francisco. Smith was fatally shot in the late morning at Mendell Plaza, shortly after being released from jail earlier that day. His body was discovered with a jail bracelet still in his pocket. The shooting was one of two separate homicides in San Francisco on New Year's Day, the other occurring in the Mission District, though police have stated there is no evidence linking the two incidents or suggesting gang involvement.
Michael Peace was identified as the primary suspect in Smith's homicide. During a preliminary hearing, witness testimonies and video footage were presented to support the charges against Peace. The court heard evidence that linked Peace to a maroon Chrysler observed at the crime scene, as well as testimony suggesting that Peace was seen holding an object while approaching the plaza just before shots were fired. The vehicle used in the incident was found parked a mile away, and subsequent searches led investigators to a firearm that matched the ballistics of the crime.
DNA evidence played a significant role in advancing the investigation. The murder weapon, a .40 caliber Glock, was found at a nearby residence associated with individuals linked to Peace. Both Peace's and another individual’s DNA were discovered on the firearm, strengthening the case against him. Despite the complications of mixed DNA samples, advances in forensic analysis helped establish the connection to Peace, resulting in his being held to stand trial for the murder of Mitchel Smith.
The case proceeded slowly, with Peace remaining in custody since his arrest in September 2017, and the legal process delayed for several years. Ultimately, the combination of witness identification, forensic evidence, and video surveillance allowed Judge Brian Ferrall to rule that there was sufficient evidence to move forward with a trial. Peace is expected to be arraigned in court as the investigation continues.
