Leopold Smart told us this morning that he heard his son’s murder may have been retaliation for the “Junie Balls” McKenzie murder. But this afternoon at a press conference – police said that’s not the case. CIB Chief Aaron Guzman and acting Commander of Eastern Division Chester Williams say they have no motive for Smart’s murder.
Supt. Aaron Guzman, Commander – CIB
“Jermaine Smart was shot multiple times. He had three obvious wounds to he back and he had several other wounds to different parts of the body, including his right elbow, his right arm, and his right inner thigh. We have not made any arrests as yet in relation to that incident. When the police responded, a second person was brought to the KHMH, one Mr. Lopez, Julio Lopez who was passing the same area when the this shooting occurred and he was injured in the left ankle. I believe today he was released from the hospital and whenever an arrest is made, charges will be brought in relation to Mr. Lopez’s complaint also.”
Keith Swift,
Do you believe the murder of Jerry Smart is retaliation for Junie Balls?
Sr. Supt. Chester Williams, Acting Commander – Eastern Division
“No. From the investigation so far, there is no connection between the incidents. We believe that the Jermaine Smart one is isolated from the George McKenzie murder.”
Julio Lopez was treated and released from the khmh. Police recovered 7 expended shells from the scene. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 0-800-922-TIPS.
