Update – Death Investigation on Hickory Avenue

RE: Shelbie Lynn Smith

Statesville, NC – November 8, 2024 – Following the initial response to a tragic incident on June 1, 2024, the Statesville Police Department has completed a comprehensive investigation into the death of 33-year-old Shelbie Lynn Smith.

On the morning of June 1, officers responded to a report of a missing 4-year-old child from 521 Hickory Avenue. The child was located nearby on Wilson Lee Boulevard by a concerned citizen, who attempted to return the child home. Upon arrival at the residence, the individual discovered Ms. Smith unresponsive. Emergency responders were called, but unfortunately, Ms. Smith was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Given the circumstances, the Statesville Police Department's Violent Crimes Unit, in collaboration with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, conducted an in-depth investigation. Officers carefully processed the residence, collecting and testing multiple items to aid in understanding the events leading to Ms. Smith’s death.

The pathologist has officially ruled Ms. Smith's death as accidental. Out of respect for the privacy of Ms. Smith’s family, the Statesville Police Department will limit further details released to the public.

We extend our heartfelt sympathies to Ms. Smith’s family and loved ones during this challenging time and kindly ask the community to respect their privacy.

About the City of Statesville

The City of Statesville is truly a diverse community that welcomes new people, new voices and ideas, new industry, and business. We have already made significant investments in our downtown amenities, our business sector, our schools, our infrastructure, and more is on the horizon. We are creating a dynamic future for ourselves as we build on our successful history and the positive energy we experience today, all the while incorporating the values and quality of life that we cherish. To learn more visit www.statesvillenc.net.

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