Following an initial response to an incident on June 1, 2024, the Statesville Police Department has completed a comprehensive investigation into the death of 33-year-old Shelbie Lynn Smith, according to a news release issued Friday (Nov. 8). As WHKY previously reported, the incident was initially ruled a homicide. Ms Smith’s death has now been ruled accidental.

On the morning of June 1, officers responded to a report of a missing 4-year-old child from 521 Hickory Avenue. The child was located nearby on Wilson Lee Boulevard by a concerned citizen who attempted to return him home. Upon arrival at the residence, the individual found Ms. Smith unresponsive and emergency personnel were called. Mrs Smith was pronounced dead at the scene.

Given the circumstances, the Statesville Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit, in conjunction with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, conducted a thorough investigation. Officers carefully processed the residence, collecting and testing several items to help understand the events that led to Ms. Smith’s death.

The pathologist officially ruled Ms Smith’s death accidental. Out of respect for the privacy of Ms. Smith’s family, the Statesville Police Department will limit additional details released to the public.