A Promising Life Cut Short

On May 12, 2017, the Jacksonville community was shaken by the tragic death of 17-year-old DeQual Anthony Smiley. Born on August 29, 1999, DeQual was a young man with a bright future ahead. His untimely demise not only devastated his family and friends but also left an indelible mark on the local community.

The Fateful Morning

The incident occurred at the Canopy Creek Apartments on Harts Road, located on Jacksonville's Northside. At approximately 8:30 a.m., officers from the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office responded to reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, they discovered DeQual with a life-threatening gunshot wound to the head. He was immediately transported to a nearby hospital, where, despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries....Read More