Couple's Shooting Deaths In Shady Side Likely Murders: Police

SHADY SIDE, MD — Authorities say the fatal shootings of a man and a woman early Thursday in Shady Side are likely both murders. Anne Arundel County Police said that Leslie Michael Smith, 48, and Linda Lynn McKenzie, 44, were killed about 12:30 a.m. when gunshots were reported in the area of Scott Town Road and Nick Road in Shady Side.

The victims were romantically involved and lived together on a boat on Rock Hold Creek in Deale, police spokesman Lt. Ryan Frashure said Thursday night. The case is being investigated as a double murder, not a murder suicide.

Smith and McKenzie were found lying in the area of Scott Town Road, suffering from gunshot injuries, and they were pronounced dead at the scene. Police have not identified disclosed a possible motive for the shootings, but said they do not believe there is a threat to the public.

Several patrol officers, canine officers, and a police helicopter searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspects.

Both bodies were taken to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, where an autopsy will be performed to determine the exact cause and manner of death.

Detectives have interviewed several witnesses and have received leads they are pursuing. Anyone with information on the murders is asked to call police at 410-222-4731. Anyone with information who wishes to remain anonymous can also contact the Anne Arundel County Police Tip Line 410-222-4700 or Metro Crime Stoppers at 1-866-7LOCKUP.

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