The North Carolina State Government is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible for the murder of 6-year-old Chance Douglas Smith in Locust, North Carolina, in December 2003. Governor Josh Stein announced the reward on Tuesday, calling for justice after nearly two decades of unanswered questions.
What Happened
On December 13, 2003, at around 3:49 p.m., 6-year-old Chance Smith went missing from his grandfather’s home near Scout Road in Locust. Despite a lengthy search by law enforcement and volunteers, Chance was found hours later at approximately 11:30 p.m. in a horse pasture with a head wound. He was transported to Stanly Memorial Hospital but sadly passed away shortly thereafter.
The investigation suggests that Chance was likely murdered in a location other than the pasture where he was found. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) continues to probe the case, with little progress in bringing closure to the family.
Reward and Call for Justice
Governor Josh Stein announced the $25,000 reward, emphasizing that even when all leads seem exhausted, the pursuit of justice should never stop. “I urge North Carolinians who have information about this case to contact local law enforcement so that justice can be served and Chance’s family can find closure,” said Governor Stein.
How You Can Help
Anyone with information related to this case is urged to contact the Locust Police Department at (704) 888-4744 or the State Bureau of Investigation at (919) 662-4500. Tips can lead to a crucial breakthrough and bring justice to Chance’s grieving family.
Closing Line:
The case of Chance Douglas Smith remains an open investigation, and the pursuit of justice for this young life lost continues. Please share this information to help bring closure to the family and hold those responsible accountable.
