Jay Smith, 76, of Mount Orab, Ohio, died on March 30, 2022, after suffering multiple gunshot wounds to his chest and abdomen. He was found in a camper on his property at 5040 State Route 286 around 6:30 p.m.; deputies discovered him wounded and he was taken to Clermont Mercy Hospital but died before receiving treatment.

Smith was a Marine Corps veteran and was described by his wife, Sylvia Johnson-Smith, as a good man who took care of his business and family. Investigators say his nephew, 64-year-old Sherman Smith IV, confessed to shooting Jay and also attempted to shoot another uncle, Ervin Smith, but missed. Sherman Smith IV was arrested at the scene and charged with aggravated murder and attempted murder.

The Brown County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate. If anyone knew Jay, his movements that evening, or has information about the shooting, please come forward.