HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION

On 12/9/2021 at approximately 11:08 pm, Rutherford County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to 2511 Bills Creek Road, Lake Lure in reference to a victim who had been stabbed.
Deputies located the victim, Reginald “Randy” Vess on the ground near a logging trailer on the property.
E.M.S. arrived and pronounced Mr. Vess deceased.

The suspect, Nicholas Dewayne Smith, had fled the scene before deputies arrived.
A warrant for arrest has been issued for Nicholas Dewayne Smith for the Murder of Reginald “Randy” Vess.

The investigation is still ongoing.

Anyone with information as to the location of Nicholas Dewayne Smith, is asked to call Crimestoppers 828-286-8477 (TIPS).