Michael Smith Jr., a 33-year-old Black man, was found murdered on August 28, 2015, in Dayton, Ohio. His body was recovered inside a burned-out vehicle at Triangle Park, and authorities later determined he had suffered a gunshot wound. The death was classified as a homicide.

His mother, Ernestine Smith, became alarmed after several days of unanswered calls and was later notified by police that the remains were her son’s. She described him as a loving, likable person and a devoted father of two boys, and said she hopes those responsible will be held accountable while tending to her health after a liver transplant. The Dayton Police Department is investigating and has asked anyone with information to come forward; no arrests or suspects have been reported.

If anyone has information about Michael’s movements or contacts around August 28, 2015, please share what you know with investigators.