A man is killed with an ax
In the early morning hours of August 15, 1961, a quiet Tuesday in Port Orchard, Washington, turned tragic with the discovery of a brutal homicide at the Hi-Joy Bowling Alley. James E. Smith, a 31-year-old male custodian, was found dead on the floor near the register counter by staff arriving to open the business. He had been assaulted and struck multiple times in the head with an ax or hatchet. The last time anyone had seen Smith was around 2:00 a.m. when he entered the bowling alley to begin his shift.
Investigators responding to the scene at 8:15 a.m. determined that the bowling alley had been broken into, with the point of entry appearing to be a back window. It is believed that Smith tragically interrupted the burglary in progress, leading to a fatal scuffle. Evidence suggested a struggle had occurred. In a town unaccustomed to such violence, the murder of James E. Smith sent shockwaves through the community, sparking fear and speculation.
Despite an immediate and intensive investigation by the Port Orchard Police Department and the Kitsap County Sheriff's Office, the case grew cold. Over the years, numerous theories have emerged, including one that implicated the very police chief who initially led the investigation. However, no suspect has ever been officially named or arrested in connection with the murder. The passage of time has further complicated any potential resolution, as much of the original evidence has been lost. The homicide of James E. Smith remains an unsolved mark on the history of Port Orchard, a grim reminder of a life cut short and a killer who was never brought to justice.
