Carl Alexander Smith, aged 34, was taken into custody by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office on Tuesday, facing charges of murder and possession of a firearm as a convicted felon. The arrest stems from an incident on February 4 of the previous year in which Smith allegedly shot Makensi Baptisme, a 40-year-old individual.
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a single gunshot fired on University Blvd, where they discovered Baptisme suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite efforts by the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department to save him, Baptisme was pronounced dead at the scene, found inside a vehicle.
Following extensive interviews and examination of evidence, homicide detectives identified Carl Alexander Smith as the suspect in the case. Subsequently, a warrant for Smith’s arrest was issued on February 2. With the assistance of the U.S. Marshals, Smith was apprehended in Texas and extradited to Jacksonville to face charges.
Currently, Smith remains in custody awaiting trial for the alleged murder of Makensi Baptisme. The case highlights the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in pursuing justice and holding individuals accountable for violent crimes.