Man Convicted of Murder, Armed Robbery in Deadly Covington Shooting

NEWTON COUNTY, GA — On Wednesday, August 6, a Newton County jury convicted 25-year-old Tyrese Smith, also known as “Trouble,” on multiple charges including Malice Murder, Felony Murder, Armed Robbery, three counts of Aggravated Assault, and two counts of Possession of a Firearm During Commission of a Felony.

The charges stem from a November 3, 2023, shooting at an apartment located in the Housing Authority properties on Alcovy Road. Covington Police responded to reports of gunfire and found a man, later identified as Kilpatrick, suffering from gunshot wounds to the body and head. He later died from his injuries.

According to evidence presented at trial, Smith was at the apartment with several individuals, including Kilpatrick. Smith robbed another man of a firearm while standing next to Kilpatrick, then opened fire, hitting Kilpatrick twice. Smith fled the scene and was later apprehended.

During a police interview, Smith admitted to the shooting but claimed self-defense, alleging that he was the one being robbed. Investigators and forensic evidence contradicted his account.

The jury deliberated for less than an hour before returning guilty verdicts on all counts. Smith now faces a mandatory life sentence, with the possibility of parole after 30 years.

The case was prosecuted by Chief Assistant District Attorney Cliff Howard. The investigation was led by the Covington Police Department with support from the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, the GBI Crime Lab, and the Newton County District Attorney’s Office.