Jaremy Smith, a South Carolina man, was sentenced to life in prison for gunning down a New Mexico state police officer who had stopped to help him. The sentencing followed a plea agreement in which Smith pleaded guilty to charges including carjacking resulting in death, using a firearm during a violent crime, and possession of a stolen firearm. Smith also faces charges in South Carolina for a separate carjacking case that resulted in a woman’s death.
The fatal shooting of Officer Justin Hare occurred in 2024 near Tucumcari, New Mexico. Smith shot Hare after the officer offered him a ride due to a flat tire. Smith then drove away in the officer’s patrol car, leaving Hare fatally injured on the side of the road. The officer’s body was found, and it was later discovered that the stolen car belonged to a woman who had been killed in South Carolina.
Authorities used cellphone and GPS data to track Smith and the victim’s movements. Smith had a criminal history that included time in prison for attempted armed robbery and hostage-taking. Despite not facing the death penalty at the federal level, it may be a consideration in the pending South Carolina case.
Newly appointed U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison remarked on Officer Hare’s heroism and the impact of Smith’s actions. Ellison stated that Smith’s sentencing ensures he will never be able to endanger others and honors Officer Hare’s memory.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
