In a shocking event in North Carolina, a 19-year-old first-year student enrolled in the elementary education program at Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) was discovered dead under alarming circumstances.
Amarriah Smith’s body was discovered in the trunk of a car by a tow truck employee after the vehicle, owned by 29-year-old Jordan Isaiah Thomas, was towed from the Tyco Crushing parking lot in Washington, North Carolina, situated almost 100 miles east of Raleigh.
Authorities believe that Smith was killed at a location different from where her body was found, with evidence linked to the crime discovered at Thomas’s residence. Thomas allegedly drove the car to the parking lot and then stole a truck parked nearby. He was found later at a local hospital and arrested.
Thomas faces multiple charges, including larceny of a motor vehicle, murder, and concealing the death of a person. He was formally charged with Smith’s murder on Monday, January 22, 2024, after the body’s discovery on January 17.
Smith, known affectionately as “Mari” by her loved ones, aspired to be an elementary school teacher, a dream cut tragically short.
The exact details surrounding Smith’s death, including the cause and her relationship with Thomas, are still pending further investigation. It has been confirmed that the two were acquainted.
Notably, days before her death, Smith posted a reflective message on Facebook, suggesting contemplation of her life choices.
ECSU, deeply impacted by this tragedy, expressed its profound sorrow. ECSU Chancellor Dr. Karrie Dixon, in a statement, acknowledged the deep impact of Smith’s untimely death on the university, extending sympathies to her family and friends. The university community, united in grief, is mourning the loss of one of their own.
Thomas is currently detained at the Chowan County Detention Center without bond.
