On February 25, 2023, at approximately 3 a.m., Smithfield police responded to a reported shooting behind the Little Caesar's Pizza located at 1202 N. Brightleaf Blvd. Upon arrival, officers discovered 30-year-old Tyler Jordan Davis, a resident of Princeton, North Carolina, deceased from a gunshot wound.
During the investigation, authorities arrested 22-year-old Lamore Thomas of Selma, North Carolina. Thomas was charged with first-degree murder in connection with Davis's death.
According to police reports, both men were homeless and did not know each other prior to the incident. The shooting was considered an isolated event, with no ongoing threat to the community.
Following his arrest, Thomas was held without bond in the Johnston County Jail, pending his initial court appearance. The Smithfield Police Department continued to investigate the circumstances leading up to the shooting to determine a possible motive.
The tragic death of Tyler Davis left his family and friends in mourning. Born on February 8, 1993, in Johnston County, he was survived by his parents and sisters, who dearly loved him. Private services were planned to honor his memory.
