In the heart of Jefferson City, Missouri, a young man's life was tragically cut short, leaving a community in mourning and a family shattered. Skylar William Smock, a 26-year-old male, was known as a gentle giant with a big heart, a doting father to his daughter, Adalyn, and a talented self-taught chef and bartender. Having moved from South Carolina, he had built a new life and a 'Missouri family' full of friends and colleagues who appreciated his vibrant personality and his humorous, carefree
outlook on life. He was a devoted fan of the 49ers and had a passion for racing anything with a motor.
The festive Thanksgiving weekend of 2022 took a dark turn on Saturday, November 26th. Skylar was working at J. Pfenny's, a local restaurant and bar, when a dispute erupted. In the ensuing violence, Skylar and a patron, 43-year-old Corey Thames, were fatally shot near the front door of the establishment. The sudden and brutal act sent shockwaves through the community, leaving friends and loved ones to grapple with the senseless loss of two lives. A vigil was held to honor the memory of both men, as the city mourned the violence that had unfolded in a familiar downtown gathering place.
In the wake of the double homicide, law enforcement quickly identified a suspect. Damien Davis of Kansas City was arrested and subsequently charged with two counts of first-degree murder, along with five other felonies. As a convicted felon, Davis was legally prohibited from possessing a firearm. Court documents revealed a chilling detail from witness accounts, stating that Davis allegedly had a 'smirk' on his face as he walked past the bodies of Skylar and Corey. The Cole County prosecutor has since filed a notice of intent to seek the death penalty in the case against Davis, signaling the gravity of the charges and the pursuit of the highest form of justice for the tragic deaths of Skylar Smock and Corey Thames.
