Deputies Search for Lakeland Triple Homicide Suspect

Deputies are searching for a suspect, described as delusional, who shot and killed three people in a Lakeland home over the week-end.

Polk County deputies would like the public’s help in locating David E. Smith, 27, who resided at the home in the 5600 block of Old Highway 37, in Lakeland, where he killed the victims.  He was last seen driving a 2002, beige Mercury Sable bearing Florida license 708 MDB.  Smith is described as having black hair, brown eyes, approximately 5′ 10″ tall and weighing approximately 220 pounds. Smith is of American Indian decent.  Smith is considered to be armed and dangerous.

Investigators said, a 14-year-old girl arrived home on Monday from a weekend ROTC trip to find her mother deceased inside the home.  She told one of the chaperones, her ROTC Sergeant Major, what she found, and emergency responders were contacted.

Deputies responding to the scene located two other victims, all shot and deceased in the home.  Investigators are unclear at this point of the relationship between the victims – two female and one male.

Investigators also said, Smith refers to himself as “Prince David,” as is delusional.  He was related to one of the three victims.

Smith may have high school friends in Chattanooga Tennessee, and family in Texas; however his whereabouts are unknown.

Deputies are urging the public not to approach Smith who is considered armed and dangerous.

Anyone with information about Smith’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Polk County Sheriff’s Office immediately at 863.298.6200.

Anyone who wants to report information anonymously may call 1.800.226.TIPS.