Earl D. Smith, a 58-year-old husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, was found hanging from a tree in a public area of downtown Albany around 8:00 AM on June 11, 2025. He had been baptized just days before his death. His family described him as a joyful person who loved to dance, play spades, and was the life of the party. He had no criminal history.

Suicide. Albany police ruled the death a suicide following what they called a thorough investigation confirmed by the Medical Examiner's Office. They stated there was no evidence of criminal activity.