Elizabeth Holmes Reyes, a 28-year-old woman from Smithfield, NC, was tragically killed on July 1, 2010. She was living with her mother and step-father at the time of her death. Elizabeth was shot and killed by her estranged husband, Aldolfo Reyes Maldonado, who was 45 years old. The incident occurred at 80 Neuse Bend Road in Smithfield. Elizabeth's step-father, Ben Croft, was also injured in the shooting but survived with non-life-threatening injuries.
Aldolfo Reyes Maldonado was
arrested on the front porch of the home while holding the couple's infant son. He was charged with murder and attempted first-degree murder. Prior to the incident, Maldonado had a history of domestic violence and threats against Elizabeth. In May 2010, he was charged with communicating threats to Elizabeth, and in March 2010, he was charged with assault on a female after hitting Elizabeth in the face. Despite these charges, Elizabeth had voluntarily dismissed them in April 2010.
The tragic event was part of a larger pattern of domestic violence in Johnston County, where several other victims were also honored in a candlelight vigil. Elizabeth's death highlighted the ongoing issue of domestic violence and the need for better protection and support for victims. The case against Aldolfo Reyes Maldonado proceeded with him being held in the Johnston County jail without bond, awaiting trial for the charges against him.
