Update – 3/27/23
Since the tragedy, Cody Brian Smith’s mother, Connie Smith, has created a GoFundMe to raise funds for the burial. In her post, Connie Smith shares that Cody “had a bright smile and a personality that could fill a room” and asks for community support amid the unexpected loss. As of March 27, the fundraiser has raised $5,732 of its $6,000 goal. The funeral of Cody Brian Smith will be held on Friday, March 31, 2023.
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On Saturday, March 18, just after 2 am, a shooter opened fire on Elliewood Avenue. There was one victim, 26 year old Cody Brian Smith, who was fatally wounded by the gunman and later died at the UVa Medical Center. Smith was confirmed to be a contractor for the University of Virginia.
Charlottesville Police Department arrested 21 year old Lakori Brooks on Monday, March 20, for the crime. Brooks has been charged with second degree murder and use of a firearm in commission of a felony. Due to the violent nature of the crime, Brooks was denied bail following his arrest. The preliminary hearing for this case is currently set for June 21, 2023.
Hours after the shooting, UVa President Jim Ryan sent a message to the university community expressing condolences and providing information for those who may seek counseling and support services. This shooting comes just months after the events of November 13, during which three UVa students were tragically killed. President Ryan has asked UVa Chief of Police Timothy Longo and Chief Operating Officer J.J. Wagner Davis to make efforts to mitigate the increasing gun violence in Charlottesville their highest priority.
