Gloria Durham, a 60-year-old African American woman, was tragically killed on February 12, 2017, in Ellerbe, North Carolina. The incident was part of a triple homicide that also claimed the lives of her two children, Samuel Durham, 42, and Latasha Durham, 38. The suspect, Steve William Smith, was charged with three counts of murder, breaking and entering, and providing false information to law enforcement.
The relationship between Gloria Durham and Steve Smith was tumultuous, spanning nearly 20 years. Family members revealed that Gloria had tried to leave Smith multiple times, but he refused to let her go. On the day of the incident, Smith entered the Durham residence on Robinson Avenue and fatally shot Gloria, Samuel, and Latasha. Three young children, aged 8 months, 4 years, and 10 years, were present in the home but were unharmed.
The Richmond County Sheriff's Office, with assistance from the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation, conducted a thorough investigation into the murders. Smith was arrested and charged with three counts of murder, breaking and entering, and lying to law enforcement. He was held without bond as the investigation continued.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the community of Ellerbe was left in shock and mourning. The case highlighted the devastating impact of domestic violence and the importance of addressing such issues to prevent future tragedies. The Durham family's loss was deeply felt, and their story served as a somber reminder of the need for support and resources for victims of domestic violence.
