On March 26, 2023, at approximately 6:40 p.m., Fayetteville police responded to a shooting incident in the 200 block of Gertrude Street. Upon arrival, officers discovered three individuals suffering from gunshot wounds. All three victims were transported to Cape Fear Valley Hospital, where one of them, Clarence Smith, aged 40, succumbed to his injuries. This incident marked the ninth homicide in Fayetteville for the year 2023.
Clarence Junior Smith, born on July 7, 1982, in Dunn, North Carolina, was known as an entrepreneur, car dealer, and real estate investor. He is survived by his parents, Janice Jones and Clarence Williams; siblings, Latasha, Jaquisha, and Terrance Smith; his children, Diamond Banwo, Asiaha Smith Myles, Kiamoira Smith, and Kyamiah Smith; step-children, Kimora Cabrera, Antonio Cook, Deangela Mearite, and Valentino Pugh Johnson; godchildren, Nigeria Bethune, Malik Johnson, and Ayana Johnson; and granddaughter, Bre' Asia Gilliesie.
In the aftermath of the shooting, police detained an individual at the scene. Authorities described the event as an isolated incident, indicating no ongoing threat to the public. The investigation was led by Detective A. Wolford, who urged anyone with additional information to come forward.
As of the latest available information, no further details regarding arrests or the identity of the suspect have been publicly disclosed. The Fayetteville Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Clarence Smith's death. Community members with pertinent information are encouraged to contact the authorities to assist in bringing clarity and justice to this case.
