Cumberland County Sheriff's Office, North Carolina
End of Watch Wednesday, September 14, 1977
Add to My HeroesRonald Gordon Smith
Auxiliary Lieutenant Ronald Smith was shot and killed while conducting a stakeout at a convenience store.
Because of an increase in armed robberies, several auxiliary deputies were staking out convenience stores. A 25-year-old man who attempted to rob one of the stores shot Lieutenant Smith when he attempted to arrest him. The suspect turned himself into authorities the next day. He was charged with Lieutenant Smith's murder and several armed robberies.
On March 17, 1978, the suspect was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life. He was still in prison in 2022, with a release date in 2060.
Lieutenant Smith was the commander of the Cumberland County Auxiliary Officers. He was survived by his wife and two daughters.
Bio
- Age 46
- Tour Not available
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Handgun
- Offender Sentenced to life
Most Recent Reflection
View all 9 ReflectionsRest in peace always and know that your service and sacrifice will never, ever be forgotten by your law enforcement brethren.
Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)
September 14, 2020
Recent LODD Deaths

Deputy Sheriff Jacob Eric Salrin
Richland County Sheriff's Department, SC
EOW: September 29, 2023

Community Parole Officer Christine Guerin-Sandoval
Colorado Department of Corrections, CO
EOW: September 28, 2023

Deputy Sheriff Marylin Anjanette Mayo
St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office, LA
EOW: September 21, 2023

Police Officer Darrin McMichael
Arlington Police Department, TX
EOW: September 21, 2023

Deputy Sheriff Ryan Clinkunbroomer
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, CA
EOW: September 16, 2023

Governmental Affairs Liaison Michael Elaine Griffin
Mississippi Department of Public Safety, MS
EOW: September 4, 2023

Police Officer Kevin Cram
Algona Police Department, IA
EOW: September 13, 2023

Deputy Sheriff II Auston Smith Reudelhuber
Forsyth County Sheriff's Office, NC
EOW: September 9, 2023

Detective Robert Garten
Hartford Police Department, CT
EOW: September 6, 2023