In the early hours of a Wednesday morning in Buffalo, New York, the quiet of the city was shattered by an act of violence that claimed the life of James Smith III. On March 1, 2017, the 39-year-old man, known to some as 'Dough Boy,' was found deceased outside a residence at 111 Pershing Avenue. The cause of his untimely death was a fatal shooting, an event that would leave a family grieving and a community searching for answers. The male victim's death was quickly ruled a homicide by the Buffalo Police Department, prompting an intensive investigation by their homicide detectives.
In the days, months, and even years that followed, the quest for justice for James Smith III continued. Despite the ongoing efforts of law enforcement, the individual or individuals responsible for his death have remained elusive. The case has been punctuated by public appeals for information, with the hope that a crucial tip could break the silence and lead to a resolution. As of April 2022, no arrests had been made in connection with the fatal shooting, and authorities had not publicly identified any suspects.
To encourage those with knowledge of the incident to come forward, Crime Stoppers of Western New York has offered a significant financial incentive. A reward of up to $7,500 has been made available for any information that leads directly to the arrest and subsequent indictment of the person or persons responsible for the homicide of James Smith III. This enduring offer underscores the commitment of both law enforcement and the community to solving this cold case and bringing a measure of peace to the victim's loved ones. The investigation into his death remains open and active, a solemn reminder of a life cut short and a search for justice that has not been forgotten.
