Michael Douglas Smith was 74 when he was shot and killed in the early hours of June 26, 2021. The shooting occurred on the 2500 block of Thom Street on Flint’s northeast side. Police were called around 4:00 a.m.; officers found him suffering from a gunshot wound and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Accounts describe the slaying as a drive-by shooting that reached into his home, with reports saying he was struck while asleep in his bed. He was remembered as a husband, father, Vietnam veteran, a chess teacher to his children and grandchildren, and the author of two books. Investigators treated the killing as an open case and later renewed public appeals for information, including offering a reward for tips that could lead to an arrest.

If anyone heard or saw anything that night on Thom Street, or has information that could help, please come forward.