David Heath Smith, 47, was shot and killed in Lawndale, North Carolina on the afternoon of Tuesday, August 4, 2026. Deputies responded to a Boyles Road residence at about 4:26 p.m. after reports of a firearm discharge and found Smith unresponsive in the front yard with an apparent gunshot wound to his upper chest. He was pronounced dead at the scene despite life-saving efforts by deputies and EMS.

Investigators quickly followed leads that pointed to a residence on Newfield Court. A search warrant executed there produced evidence believed connected to the shooting, and 18-year-old Canyun Castillo was taken into custody without incident. Castillo has been charged with Smith’s murder and was being held without bond while the investigation continued. Authorities have not released a motive, any details about a relationship between Smith and Castillo, or a full account of what preceded the shooting.

Anyone who knew David Heath Smith or who has information about the events of August 4 or activity around Boyles Road and Newfield Court is asked to contact investigators.