Loris, South Carolina – A 63-year-old woman in Horry County, South Carolina is facing a murder charge after allegedly shooting her 64-year-old husband, Michael Smith, during a dispute over finances. The tragic incident occurred on May 12 at around 8:55 p.m. when Laura Smith fatally shot her husband in the torso at their home in Loris.
The Horry County Chief Deputy Coroner Tamara Willard confirmed the details of the incident in a news release, stating that Michael died as a result of the gunshot wound inflicted by his wife. The Horry County Police Department has since launched an investigation into the matter.
According to Horry County Police Department booking records, Laura Smith was arrested at 2:29 a.m. on May 13 and is currently being held at the J. Reuben Long Detention Center without bail. Additional information revealed that police found a revolver next to Michael’s body following Laura’s disclosure that he was in the bedroom during the altercation.
Reports indicate that Laura Smith’s warrant stated she shot her husband twice in the torso with a revolver following a verbal dispute about their financial matters. A neighbor who witnessed Laura being taken into custody shared their shock and disbelief over the tragic turn of events, noting that the couple had been out riding their golf cart with their dog just hours before the shooting.
The neighbor, who requested to remain anonymous, expressed their disbelief at the sudden police presence and crime tape surrounding the Smiths’ residence, emphasizing the unpredictability of events that occur behind closed doors. They also mentioned that Laura had previously expressed gratitude for her husband’s love, making the situation even more shocking and tragic for those who knew the couple. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with authorities yet to provide further details or comments in response to media inquiries.