Kimberly Nicole Smith, a 24-year-old woman from Lumberton, North Carolina, tragically lost her life on June 11, 2021. She was born on July 27, 1996, in Robeson County, North Carolina. Kimberly was a beloved member of her community, known for her kindness and the love she shared with her family and friends. She was survived by her parents, Patrick Telly Locklear and Lillian Grace Hardin, as well as her children, Fredrick Cain, Jr. and Siah Cruz.
Her death left a void in the lives of those who knew her.
On the fateful day of June 11, 2021, Kimberly Nicole Smith was found with fatal injuries at the Econo Lodge hotel in Lumberton. The Lumberton Police Department responded to a report of a shooting at the hotel around 4:43 a.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered Kimberly and her boyfriend, Frederick Christopher Cain, both with apparent gunshot wounds. However, it was later determined that Cain's injuries were minor and did not appear to be the result of a gunshot wound. Kimberly was transported to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, where she succumbed to her injuries.
The investigation into Kimberly Nicole Smith's death led to the arrest of her boyfriend, Frederick Christopher Cain, a 24-year-old man from Lumberton. Cain was charged with second-degree murder in connection with Kimberly's death. He was taken into custody by Robeson County sheriff's deputies and subsequently turned over to the Lumberton Police Department for processing. Cain was held at the Robeson County Detention Center under a $200,000 secured bond.
The legal proceedings against Frederick Christopher Cain began shortly after his arrest. The case was initially heard in Robeson County District Court, where it was continued multiple times. District Court Judge Diane Surgeon presided over the case, which was scheduled for further hearings in September 2021. The charges against Cain and the ongoing investigation into Kimberly Nicole Smith's death brought attention to the tragic circumstances surrounding her untimely passing.
Kimberly Nicole Smith's death was a devastating loss for her family and the community of Lumberton. Her memory lives on through the love and support of her family, friends, and all those who were touched by her life. The legal proceedings and investigation into her death continue to seek justice for Kimberly and provide closure for her loved ones.
