Daniel Ernesto Smith, a 40-year-old Hispanic man and lifelong Pueblo resident, was fatally shot in the 1300 block of East 14th Street on the east side of Pueblo in the early hours of New Year’s Eve 2023. Pueblo Police responded about 12:45 a.m.; Smith was taken to a local hospital where he died. His death is being investigated as a homicide.

Smith’s life included a history of gang involvement and a significant period of incarceration, but after his release he worked to turn his life around. He became a personal trainer, volunteered with Addict to Athletes, fed people experiencing homelessness, and partnered with the United Way. The motive for the killing is unclear; those who knew him say his former affiliations have been considered as a possible factor. As of October 22, 2024 no arrests have been announced and the investigation is ongoing.

If anyone knew Daniel or has information about what happened that night, please come forward to assist the investigation.