Samuel Damon Durham, a 42-year-old African American male, was tragically killed on February 12, 2017, in Ellerbe, North Carolina. The incident occurred at the Robinson Avenue home he shared with his family. Durham was one of three victims in a triple homicide that also claimed the lives of his sister, 38-year-old Latasha Devora Durham, and their mother, 68-year-old Gloria Jean Durham.
The suspect, Steven William Smith, a 40-year-old male from Jackson Springs, was apprehended shortly
after the incident. Smith, who had a tumultuous relationship with Latasha Durham spanning nearly 20 years, was charged with three counts of first-degree murder, felony breaking and entering, having a fictitious driver's license, and resisting a public officer. Smith's criminal history includes multiple convictions for violent offenses, including assault with a deadly weapon, second-degree kidnapping, and assault inflicting serious injury.
The Richmond County Sheriff's Office received the call about the shooting around 11:54 a.m. on February 12, 2017. Smith was apprehended by the Moore County Sheriff's Office and Carthage Police Department shortly after 12:30 p.m. The investigation revealed that three young children were present in the home at the time of the murders but were unharmed.
Smith's violent past and the nature of his relationship with Latasha Durham were significant factors in the investigation. Family members described the relationship as tumultuous, with Latasha attempting to leave Smith multiple times. Despite her efforts, Smith's refusal to let her go ultimately led to the tragic events of that day.
Smith is currently being held in Richmond County without bond. The case has drawn significant attention due to the brutal nature of the crime and the suspect's extensive criminal history.
