On November 26, 2023, 30-year-old Brittany Reneé Smith was found deceased at her residence in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina. Initially, her death was reported as a possible suicide; however, subsequent investigations led authorities to reclassify the case as a homicide.
During the crime scene examination, critical evidence was recovered, and findings from the medical examiner supported the conclusion that Smith's death was not self-inflicted.
At the time of her death, two men were present in the home: her boyfriend, 30-year-old Demonte Saquan Johnson, and 27-year-old Patrick Lequan Banks, both from Roanoke Rapids.
On January 5, 2024, after consulting with the Halifax County District Attorney, warrants were issued for both individuals. Johnson was charged with second-degree murder, while Banks faced charges of felony obstruction of justice and accessory after the fact. Both men were apprehended on January 14, 2024, following a tip that led law enforcement to their location near the intersection of Georgia Avenue and 10th Street in Roanoke Rapids. They were subsequently taken into custody without bond at the Halifax County Detention Center.
Brittany Smith, born on August 16, 1993, in Bartow, Florida, was a devoted mother to her daughters: Destiny Parker, Alicia Parker, Chassidy Parker, Brooklyn Parker, Deneshia Johnson, and Dream Johnson. She had relocated to North Carolina three years prior to her passing. Known for her love of hip-hop and rap music, Brittany cherished spending time with her family and friends. She was preceded in death by her son, Demonte Johnson Jr.
A visitation and funeral service were held on December 13, 2023, at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales, Florida, where family and friends gathered to honor her memory.
The reclassification of Brittany's death from suicide to homicide has brought renewed attention to the case, with her family and the community seeking justice for her untimely passing. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding her death, urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
