Grand Jury Charges 22-Year-Old in Brutal Killings
A Mobile County grand jury has indicted Jared Tarant Smith-Bracy, 22, on four counts of capital murder in connection with the February 2023 deaths of his grandparents, brother, and a family friend.
Victims Found at Home in Daphne
On February 23rd, 2023, the bodies of Barbara Smith (72), Jeremy Smith (27), Sheila Glover (71), and Lenard Smith (80) were discovered in the backyard and inside the Daphne residence of Smith-Bracy’s grandparents. Authorities allege Smith-Bracy fatally shot his grandmother, brother, and family friend, then used a pickaxe to kill his grandfather within the home.
Arrest, Motive, and Mental Evaluation
Earlier that same day, Smith-Bracy was arrested for damaging a door at the family residence. Following his release on bond, police allege he used a gun belonging to a friend who drove him home to commit the murders. The unnamed friend reportedly contacted authorities after hearing gunshots and went directly to a police station.
No official motive for the killings has been disclosed by investigators. In February 2023, Smith-Bracy entered a not guilty plea by reason of mental defect, and court records indicate a mental evaluation was ordered earlier this year.
Capital Murder Charges and Next Steps
With the formal indictment, Smith-Bracy remains in custody without bond. If convicted, he faces the possibility of the death penalty. The legal proceedings are expected to continue moving forward.
