Teacher killed in Fort Bend County, Texas

FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas – A Richmond teacher was found dead at home Monday. The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office said her death is being investigated as a homicide.

Laura Smith, 37, was found dead in her home in Snowbell Court, a neighborhood southeast of the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds on Highway 36.

The discovery was made around noon when family members called and asked for a welfare check. Smith was a teacher at Gray Elementary School in the Lamar Consolidated Independent School District during the 2023-2024 school year.

When officers arrived at her home, they entered the building and found Smith dead. They said she had “suffered traumatic injuries” that led to her death. They said they believed it was an isolated incident but did not identify a suspect.

“We encourage the public to come forward with any relevant information that may help investigators solve this case,” said Sheriff Eric Fagan. “We will continue to work tirelessly to bring those responsible for this violent crime to justice.”

Anyone with information regarding Smith’s death is asked to call the FBCSO non-emergency line at 281-341-4665 and select option 1. People with information who wish to remain anonymous may call Fort Bend County Crime Stoppers at 281-342-TIPS (8477).