Watch CBS News

Did Brookfield Man Testify In Case Before Being Murdered? Cops Are Mum

(CBS) – A west suburban community is coming together for a 33-year-old father who was shot and killed in front of his home earlier this week.

CBS 2's Sandra Torres reports.

Brookfield's police chief, James Episcopo, says detectives found the suspect's vehicle this morning, and although no one is in custody authorities are now pursuing active leads.

Candles and flowers sit in the spot where Michael Smith was fatally shot. It's a somber reminder of the tragic events that shook the community just days ago.

Brookfield Murder Victim
Michael Smith (courtesy family)

Motive is still a mystery. So far, police only say someone opened fire and killed Smith while he was sitting in his car on Wednesday in plain daylight. Friday morning is when detectives located the suspect's vehicle. No suspects are in custody.

Smith was a security guard and leaves behind a wife and young son.

The community has rallied around them, raising thousands of dollars through a fundraising page at Gofundme.

Brenna and Dan Velcich own Burger Antics, a burger joint down the street where Smith was killed. They are planning a fundraiser for his family for Saturday. For every burger sold, the business will donate a $1 to the Gofundme effort.

There have been some reports that smith testified in court in connection with a criminal case before the shooting. Brookfield's police chief says he can't confirm or deny that but that his detectives are looking into it.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.