The Tribune

By KHRISNA VIRGIL

Tribune Staff Reporter

kvirgil@tribunemedia.net

AS FAMILIES came together to ride out Hurricane Sandy, loved ones of Viola Smith were left to mourn the 76-year-old grandmother after she was shot to death in a hail of bullets inside her bedroom.

Police said when they arrived at the scene they found Ms Smith lying on her side unresponsive with gunshots to the head and neck.

Initial police reports said that at around 8.53pm on Thursday authorities were alerted by a caller that multiple shots were heard in the residence at Eneas Street, between Poinciana Drive and Meadow Street.

The caller, who said she was the victim’s granddaughter, told police that she believed Ms Smith had been shot.

Eyewitnesses said a group of men were outside the house when an argument erupted.

The dispute became violent and resulted in a man, who is believed to be a relative of the victim, being followed into the house my another man. Moments later, several gunshots were heard. Family members then confirmed that she had been injured. When Emergency Medical Services arrived they declared Ms Smith dead.

Police said their investigations were ongoing. They are urging the public to come forward with information.