Case 261: Shari Smith & Debra May Helmick (Part 1)
Sep 22, 2023
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This podcast episode features Shari Smith and Debra May Helmick. It delves into the mysterious disappearance of Shari, exploring theories of abduction, ransom, and stalking. The search for her is intensified after a haunting letter is received, and a cryptic phone call from the kidnapper provides new information. The episode also discusses the likely profile of the perpetrator and reveals the discovery of Shari's body.
The disappearance and tragic death of Sherry Smith in South Carolina sparked the largest manhunt in the state's history.
The killer made chilling and disturbing phone calls to the Smith family, displaying an unsettling obsession with Sherry.
Despite extensive efforts by law enforcement, the killer remains unidentified, leaving the Lexington community in a state of fear and uncertainty.
Deep dives
Sherry Smith's Disappearance
On a hot day in May 1985, Sherry Smith, a 17-year-old girl from South Carolina, went missing after returning home from a pool party. Her father found her car abandoned at the end of their driveway, and despite extensive searches, Sherry was nowhere to be found. Police launched a full-scale investigation, considering various theories, including abduction, ransom, or an obsessed individual targeting Sherry. The case attracted widespread attention, and the community rallied together to support the Smith family. Weeks later, Sherry's body was tragically discovered in a remote location, revealing a devastating end to her abduction. As investigators worked tirelessly to track down the killer, they received several phone calls from a person claiming responsibility. The caller provided disconcerting details about the crime and expressed remorse but refused to turn himself in. The investigation continued with no breakthroughs, leaving the community on edge, fearful that the killer could strike again.
The Haunting Phone Calls
Throughout the investigation, the killer made numerous phone calls to the Smith family and local media outlets, displaying a disturbing obsession with Sherry. He provided specific information about Sherry's last will and testament, her cause of death, and even described engaging in a sexual act with her before suffocating her. The caller claimed to be a friend of the family and spoke as if he had a close relationship with Sherry, further unsettling the Smiths. Despite extensive efforts to trace the calls, the killer managed to evade detection and left no tangible evidence behind. The phone calls intensified the fear within the community as they realized the killer's psychological torment and unpredictable nature.
Community Support and Vigilance
The disappearance and tragic death of Sherry Smith deeply affected the Lexington community, prompting an outpouring of grief and solidarity. Friends, relatives, and strangers rallied together, distributing missing person posters, contributing to a substantial reward fund, and participating in search efforts. The community became more vigilant, with parents keeping a watchful eye on their children and young women avoiding going out alone. Everyone hoped for justice and desperately awaited the capture of Sherry's killer to prevent any further harm to their community.
The Intense Investigation
Law enforcement officials conducted an extensive investigation into Sherry Smith's disappearance and murder. They examined potential suspects, considering individuals who may have targeted Sherry due to her physical appearance or an unhealthy obsession. Psychological profiling played a crucial role in creating a profile of the perpetrator, indicating that they were dealing with an intelligent, meticulous individual familiar with forensic procedures. Despite the meticulous efforts of investigators, the killer continued to elude capture, leaving authorities frustrated and the community in a state of heightened fear and uncertainty.
The Unresolved Case and Lingering Fear
Sherry Smith's case remains unsolved, leaving her family and the Lexington community with lingering fear and unanswered questions. The killer's distinct phone calls, the psychological torment inflicted on the Smith family, and the apparent enjoyment he derived from taunting investigators intensified the community's apprehension. While attempts were made to lure the killer out and capture him, he remained one step ahead, leading to growing concerns that he would strike again if not apprehended. Sherry's tragic and unresolved case continued to haunt the Lexington community, underscoring the urgent need for justice and closure.
*** Content warning: Sexual assault *** [Part 1 of 2] When 17-year-old Shari Smith disappeared from the end of her family's driveway in Lexington, South Carolina, there were immediate concerns for her wellbeing. Shari had a rare medical condition that could turn fatal without her medication.
But any concerns that Shari’s illness could have caused her disappearance were quickly quashed after the Smith family received an odd phone call, prompting the largest manhunt in South Carolina’s history. As the taunting calls continued, the question remained - where was Shari? And was she still alive?
