Fatal Assault in Big Spring Store: Suspect Arrested

Big Spring Police Department continues to investigate a recent assault case that resulted in the death of Kelleigh Smith, a 41-year-old male. The incident took place on April 18th, 2024, at approximately 6:45 P.M. when officers responded to a call at the DK convenience store on 1801 S. Gregg Street. Smith reported being assaulted by Tenor Williford, a 20-year-old male, with a blunt object outside a residence on the 1600 block of S. Main.

Initially, Smith declined medical treatment, but later that evening, officers found him at Scenic Mountain Medical Center seeking treatment for his injuries. He was subsequently transported to UMC Lubbock for further medical attention. On April 19th, detectives from the Big Spring Police Department Criminal Investigations Division conducted a preliminary investigation at the scene of the assault, leading to the arrest of Williford for an outstanding warrant related to Cruelty to Animals.

Further investigation by detectives uncovered the suspected blunt object used in the assault, leading to the issuance of an arrest warrant for Williford on charges of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, a felony offense. Smith succumbed to his injuries on April 26th, prompting detectives to obtain an arrest warrant for Williford on a murder charge. Williford is currently held at the Howard County Detention Center on a $500,000 bond.

The investigation remains ongoing as detectives continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses. An autopsy for Smith is scheduled for May 1st, 2024.