In the late summer of 2018, a residence on West 40th Avenue in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, became the scene of a tragic event that would cut a young life short. On the evening of August 28th, the sounds of yelling and screaming erupted from within the home, prompting a response from local law enforcement. Upon their arrival, officers made a grim discovery that marked another chapter in the city's struggle with violence.
Inside the residence, they found 20-year-old Jamonte Smith, a male, lying
on the floor, suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency medical services were quickly summoned, and he was transported by ambulance to Jefferson Regional Medical Center. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, Jamonte Smith was pronounced dead, becoming the city's 16th homicide victim of the year. His body was subsequently sent to the state crime lab for an autopsy to officially determine the cause and manner of his death.
In the immediate aftermath of the discovery, officers at the scene began their investigation. They spoke with another 20-year-old, Lecole Wilson, who was present at the residence. Wilson was later taken to the police station for further questioning by detectives. Following this interview, Lecole Wilson was arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of Jamonte Smith. She was booked at the Jefferson County Jail on a charge of first-degree murder.
As part of their investigation, authorities executed a search warrant on the home where the shooting occurred. During the search of the crime scene, officers located a. 22 caliber handgun, which they believed to be the weapon used in the homicide. Wilson was scheduled to appear in court for a probable cause hearing later that week to face the charges brought against her.
