On February 20, 2023, at approximately 2:25 p.m., Sanford Police Department officers responded to reports of a shooting at 218 Simmons Street in Sanford, North Carolina. Upon arrival, they found two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds: 72-year-old Joseph Thomas "JT" Smith and 19-year-old Ty'Shawn Anthony Smith. Both victims were transported to Central Carolina Hospital, where Joseph Smith succumbed to his injuries, while Ty'Shawn Smith was treated for a gunshot wound to the leg and was
expected to recover.
Witnesses reported seeing a silver or gray sedan leaving the scene shortly after the shooting. Sanford Police initiated an investigation, seeking information about the vehicle and its occupants. Despite efforts to locate the suspect(s), no arrests have been made, and the case remains unsolved. Authorities continue to urge anyone with information to come forward to assist in bringing those responsible to justice.
Joseph Thomas Smith, known as "JT," was born on April 10, 1950, in Sanford, North Carolina, to the late Henry and Ethel Smith. He attended W.B. Wicker School and worked at Lee County Hospital during his schooling. Later, he was employed at Saco Lowell in Sanford and, after its closure, worked for the City of Sanford until health issues led to his retirement. JT was remembered as a humble and God-fearing man who loved his family and everyone he met. He was known for sharing words of faith and offering prayers to those he encountered.
The tragic loss of JT has deeply affected the Sanford community, highlighting concerns about local safety and the need for effective measures to address violent crime. Community members have expressed their grief and are calling for increased efforts to prevent such incidents in the future. The Sanford Police Department continues to investigate the case, appealing to the public for any information that could lead to the identification and apprehension of the suspect(s) involved.
