MANASSAS, Va. – Authorities have leveled severe accusations against 33-year-old Jaremy Smith, branding him a menace to society following his involvement in several violent offenses across multiple states last year. The crime spree, linked by law enforcement to Smith, allegedly includes the brutal execution-style murder of a South Carolina paramedic and the killing of a New Mexico police officer.
Smith, who has already entered a guilty plea in the slaying of New Mexico State Police Officer Justin Hare, is now embroiled in the pretrial processes relating to the murder of Phonesia Machado-Fore, a Marian County paramedic. Reported missing on March 14, Machado-Fore’s life came to a tragic end with her body discovered mere a day later.
Investigators allege that Smith invaded Machado-Fore’s residence, stole firearms, and abducted her. It is believed he forced her into her vehicle, drove her to a secluded wooded area, and fatally shot her in the head. When found, Machado-Fore’s body was dressed in pajamas, adorned unsettlingly with a dog shock collar, her face visibly injured, and her hands bound with plastic ties.
The aftermath of this murder saw Smith embarking on a cross-country flight from justice with an associate, during which they committed an armed robbery. The duo split in Texas, with Smith continuing alone to New Mexico. There, an unfortunate encounter with Officer Hare occurred after Smith experienced a flat tire. As per his guilty plea agreement, Smith confessed to shooting Hare in the head as the officer approached to assist, afterward hijacking Hare’s vehicle.
Facing serious charges, Smith admitted guilt to multiple offenses, including carjacking leading to death and the use of a firearm in committing a violent crime. He is now detained in New Mexico, pending sentencing while he also faces trial in South Carolina for 17 charges that include murder, kidnapping, and several firearms-related offenses.
The deaths of Machado-Fore and Hare have profoundly impacted their communities, both reeling from the loss of dedicated public servants. New Mexico State Police Chief Troy Weisler commented on the incidents, expressing that the violence carried out by Smith has no place in society, especially against those committed to public safety and order.
As Smith’s legal proceedings advance, the families of the victims are one step closer to obtaining some measure of justice, which has brought a preliminary sense of closure. These trials serve as a grim reminder of the risks faced by first responders and reinforce the broader societal imperative to ensure their safety.
The potential for consecutive life sentences in Smith’s case highlights the grave nature of the offenses and stands as a stark testament to the lethal consequences of unchecked aggression. As court hearings continue, the affected families and communities are left seeking solace and justice, hoping for a resolution that prevents future tragedies of a similar nature.