Samuel Smith, a Sacramento resident, died on July 6, 1973. He was the victim of a violent confrontation that ended with multiple gunshot wounds; emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene after witnesses reported hearing a heated argument followed by gunfire.

Sacramento Police investigators identified and questioned several suspects and arrested a primary suspect believed to have had a personal dispute with Smith. That suspect was charged with first-degree murder and other counts, and after a high-profile trial the jury returned a guilty verdict for second-degree murder, resulting in a lengthy prison sentence.

The case drew significant local attention and is remembered for its impact on conversations about violence and public safety in Sacramento.