Tony Michael Smoot, 30, was shot to death on January 8, 2023, on West Dixie Street in Florence, South Carolina. Known locally as a motivational speaker for young people, Smoot’s death from a gunshot wound ended a life devoted to encouraging others.

Florence police identified a suspect and, within days, arrested 20-year-old Ty’Sheem Ha’keem Johnson of Florence. Johnson was charged with murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime and was booked into the Florence County Detention Center pending further legal proceedings.

Smoot’s family and the community continue to mourn his loss and the gap left by his work with youth. If anyone witnessed the shooting on West Dixie Street or has information that could help the investigation, please come forward.