Darryl Wayne Smith, a 56-year-old man from Winston-Salem, NC, died unexpectedly on February 10, 2022. He was known affectionately as "Red" or "RedDog" due to his bright red hair and love for dogs. Born prematurely on August 25, 1965, in Los Angeles, California, Darryl overcame early health challenges and grew up to be an athletic and adventurous individual.
He had a passion for sports, tattoos, and keeping people entertained with his humor.
On the day of his death, Darryl was shot and later found unresponsive at a hospital. He was brought to the hospital by people he knew, and despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries. The incident occurred around the 700 block of Jonestown Road in Winston-Salem. Detectives believe that Darryl was shot in that area before being transported to the hospital.
Following the tragic incident, Winston-Salem police launched an investigation. Three individuals were arrested in connection with Darryl's death. Melvin Lynn Pruitt, 46, was charged with possession of a firearm by a felon, general murder, and robbery with a dangerous weapon. Shakeem Mohammad Jones, 28, faced charges of murder and attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon. Lakesha Sherelle Cowan, 30, was also charged with murder and attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon. All three suspects were taken into custody and faced no bond.
The case drew significant attention from the local community and law enforcement, as Darryl's death marked the sixth homicide in Winston-Salem for the year, compared to three homicides during the same period the previous year. The investigation continued as detectives worked to gather more evidence and build a strong case against the suspects.
Darryl Wayne Smith's death left a void in the lives of his family and friends, who remembered him as a loving son, brother, uncle, and friend. His memory lives on through the stories and memories shared by those who knew him.
