Jasper County, GA. – On Thursday, May 19, 2016 at approximately 9:30 PM the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office requested the GBI Milledgeville Office to investigate a shooting incident in Monticello, GA. Around 9:00 PM Jasper County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to 294 Benton Street, where initial information indicated that an intruder entered that residence and was shot by the occupant.

At this time the investigation has revealed that Eddie Frank Smith (69 years old) lives at this residence alone, is a Vietnam veteran, and is confined to a wheelchair. At the time of the incident, Andre Smith (22 years old, no known relation to Eddie Frank Smith) forced entry into the residence through a rear door. Eddie Frank Smith was inside, heard the rear door breaking, and went to investigate the noise. Upon contact, Andre Smith lunged toward Eddie Frank Smith, and Eddie Frank Smith fired a single shot at Andre, striking him in the chest. Andre Smith then fled from the residence, but collapsed on Benton Street about 100 yards from the residence. Neighbors saw Andre in the road, and called 911. Eddie Frank Smith also called 911 to report the incident. Andre Smith was transported to Jasper Memorial Hospital, but died at the hospital. An autopsy has been completed at the GBI Crime Lab in Decatur, GA; confirming Andre Smith died from a single gunshot wound. Upon completion of the investigation, the case file will be turned over to the Ocmulgee Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for review.

Contact Information:

SAC Joe Wooten or ASAC Ryan Carmichael - 478/445-4173