Fifteen Grand for Murder Suspect: Smith on the Run

A man was executed in broad daylight on N. Sherry Drive in Trotwood, Ohio, and the shooter, Anthony E. Smith, remains a ghost. The Trotwood Police Department, backed by the FBI, is offering a hefty $15,000 reward for information directly leading to Smith’s arrest and conviction – they want him locked up, not just found. Smith allegedly unleashed a hail of pistol fire on the victim on May 30, 2022, leaving him dead in a front yard.

Smith, 41, is no stranger to the system. He was formally charged with murder in Montgomery County Municipal Court on June 6, 2022, and a warrant is active for his arrest. He’s built like a linebacker – approximately 5’11” and 220 pounds – and goes by several aliases: “Tay Smith,” “Tay,” and the unflattering “Taterhead.” Don’t be fooled by any attempts at disguise; authorities consider him armed and dangerous, and approaching him is ill-advised. Consider this a warning: he’s a threat to anyone who crosses his path.

The feds aren’t messing around. The Cincinnati FBI field office is pouring resources into this hunt, and they’re emphasizing the need for the public to step up. They’re offering anonymity to anyone who provides a solid lead. Smith has a network, and investigators believe he’s been laying low in multiple cities, attempting to disappear. Known connections include Detroit, Michigan; Covington, Tennessee; Tampa, Florida; Springfield and Dayton, Ohio; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and the Camden, New Jersey area. He’s likely leaning on old contacts, and that’s where the public can help.

“We need people to talk,” stated FBI Special Agent in Charge J. William Rivers. “Violent offenders like Smith don’t operate in a vacuum. Someone knows where he is, who’s helping him, or has seen him recently. That information, no matter how small it seems, could be the key to getting him off the streets.” The FBI has released a wanted poster with Smith’s image, widely circulated to law enforcement agencies and available on their website. It’s a clear picture, but recognition isn’t enough; actionable intelligence is what they’re after.

Trotwood PD is leading the investigation, but the FBI’s Southern Ohio Safe Streets Task Force is providing significant backup. This isn’t just about solving a murder; it’s about sending a message that violent crime won’t be tolerated. The reward isn’t just money; it’s a declaration that the community won’t be intimidated. Federal prosecutors are prepared to build a rock-solid case against Smith, and they’re confident a conviction will be secured with the public’s assistance.

If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Anthony E. Smith, do not approach him. Immediately contact your local police department or call the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI. Every lead will be investigated. Fifteen thousand dollars is on the table, but more importantly, a grieving family deserves closure, and a dangerous criminal needs to be held accountable. Silence isn’t an option.

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