In the spring of 2023, a senseless act of violence tragically cut short the life of Kenneth 'Buck' James Smith, a 57-year-old man known for his positive and complimentary nature. The incident that led to his untimely death unfolded on Friday, March 17th, in New Orleans, Louisiana, beginning with a simple, kind gesture.
Earlier that day, Smith was at a barbershop on Crowder Boulevard where he offered a compliment to a young boy, calling him a 'king.'
This seemingly innocuous comment, however, angered the child's father, Harold Brooks. Despite Smith's repeated apologies for any offense caused, an argument ensued. Smith eventually left the barbershop, but the dispute did not end there.
Later that afternoon, at approximately 2:15 p.m., as Smith was walking as a pedestrian along the I-10 Service Road near the intersection with Crowder Boulevard, he was fatally shot. Witnesses reported that the gunman was the same man from the earlier confrontation at the barbershop. First responders found Smith with gunshot wounds and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The New Orleans Police Department quickly launched a homicide investigation. Through their efforts and witness testimonies, they identified 37-year-old Harold Brooks as the primary suspect. Just a few days later, on a Tuesday, authorities located and arrested Brooks. He was subsequently charged with second-degree murder in connection with the death of Kenneth Smith, a man who was remembered by those who knew him as a very nice and good person who always sought to bless others.
