On the evening of July 3, 2020, deputies from the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of gunfire on Hill Top Lane in Bennettsville, South Carolina. They found 40-year-old Anthony Antoine Douglas Smith suffering from multiple gunshot wounds; he was transported to a local hospital and later died of his injuries.

Investigators quickly identified a suspect, 26-year-old Shyheim Quantel Dease. Dease was sought as armed and dangerous, was taken into custody shortly after the shooting, and was charged in connection with Smith’s death. The solicitor’s office took the case for prosecution and an arraignment was scheduled. Motive has not been publicly disclosed.

If anyone in Bennettsville that night saw activity on Hill Top Lane or has information about Smith’s final hours, please come forward.