About this episode
We’re taking a break from Cup of Justice to bring you a special Premium episode of Soundbites, typically reserved for LUNASHARK Premium Members. Today’s episode is dedicated to the tragic and perplexing case of Stephen Smith.
This episode, from journalist Beth Braden, librarian Kate Thomas, and producer Sam Berlin, aims to review "what we knew and when we knew it" about Stephen's unsolved homicide.
Stephen Smith, a bright 19-year-old nursing student with aspirations of becoming a doctor, was found dead in the middle of Sandy Run Road ten years ago on July 8, 2015. Despite a seven-inch gash on his forehead and blunt force trauma to his head, initial investigators were stumped, and while the coroner believed it was a shooting homicide, a pathologist controversially ruled it a hit-and-run.
This episode delves into the details of the investigation while also providing an intimate look into who Stephen Smith truly was: a kind, funny, generous, and studious young man with a clear plan to become "Dr. Stephen Smith". His legacy also lives on through the Stephen Smith Scholarship fund, established to help need-based nursing students.
A $50,000 reward is available for information leading to an arrest. If you know something or know someone who knows something, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please send tips to SLED at tips@sled.sc.gov or call 803-737-9000.
We invite you to show your support by joining the "Walking With Stephen" memorial event in Hampton, South Carolina, on July 12, 2025.
Episode Resources:
Sign up for the “Walking With Stephen” Memorial Walk on July 12, 2025 🚶🏻➡️
“Who Killed Stephen Smith?” Spotify Playlist 💚
Donate to the Stephen Smith Memorial Scholarship Fund 💚
"News Agency sued over mistaken 'person of interest' in Stephen Smith case. 'We apologized.'" - Greenville News, Feb 7, 2024 📰
“MOTION DENIED - Alex Murdaugh New Trial Hearing With Justice Jean Toal” - LUNASHARK Media YouTube, Jan 29, 2024 🎞️
Tips can be email to SLED at tips@sled.sc.gov or call 803-737-9000 ℹ️
Stay Tuned, Stay Pesky and Stay in the Sunlight...☀️
