Danial Harmon: Man chases ex-girlfriend, runs her over with car as she calls 911, later disposes of her body

The Aiken County Sheriff's Office charged Danial Gabriel Harmon with second-degree domestic violence and added a kidnapping charge
PUBLISHED DEC 25, 2023
Jamilla Smith's disappearance has transitioned into a homicide case following the discovery of crucial evidence against her ex-boyfriend (Aiken County Detension centre, Aiken County Sheriff Office)
Jamilla Smith's disappearance has transitioned into a homicide case following the discovery of crucial evidence against her ex-boyfriend (Aiken County Detension centre, Aiken County Sheriff Office)

Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.

AIKEN COUNTY, SOUTH CAROLINA: Jamilla Smith's disappearance has transitioned into a homicide case following the discovery of crucial evidence against Smith's ex-boyfriend, Danial Harmon. Allegedly, Harmon ran over her with a car and disposed of her body as per Law&Crime.

As the investigation unfolded, the police outlined the details of how Harmon is accused of murdering his ex-girlfriend.

Upon delving into the case, law enforcement revealed a history between Harmon and Smith, which is believed to be a significant factor contributing to Harmon's fatal actions.

Jamilla Smith sought help from 911

(Aiken County Sheriff's Office)
Jamilla Smith's family seeks help from 911 (Aiken County Sheriff's Office)

Initially, on December 4, the Aiken County Sheriff's Office charged Danial Gabriel Harmon with second-degree domestic violence. Subsequently, on December 6, investigators added a kidnapping charge.

The crucial background between Harmon and Smith unveiled a history marked by previous incidents of domestic violence between them.

Investigators also asserted that Harmon has mental health issues and has made threats of causing harm.

Based on gathered information, detectives believe that Harmon killed Smith around 8:30 p.m. on December 2, outside her residence on Old Jackson Highway.

According to reports, Smith contacted 911, reporting that her ex-boyfriend had broken into her home and was pursuing her down the road.

Dispatchers heard the sound of a car engine revving and Smith screaming.

She seemingly dropped the phone, and dispatchers overheard a man on the line instructing Smith to get into the car, suggesting he would take her to the emergency room.

Despite her repeated refusals and assertions that he ran her over, causing her pain, the call abruptly ended.

The man, believed to be Harmon, did not take her to the hospital. Investigators later reportedly discovered a shoe print on Smith's door.

What did Investigators say?

In the aftermath of Smith's disappearance, investigators received information from an anonymous source stating that Harmon had rented a 2023 Dodge Charger.

Tracing the car to a residence, they discovered it concealed, and Harmon was apprehended. 

Notably, blood stains were found in the car's trunk, and a sample was sent to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. However, the results were redacted from the affidavit. 

(Aiken County Detention Center)
Harmon remains detained at the Aiken County Jail without bond, with a court date scheduled for February 23.(Aiken County Detention Center)

Additionally, Smith's remains have yet to be located, prompting continued efforts by family and friends in the hope of finding closure.

Vanessa Williams, a family friend, emphasized, "We don’t want Jamilla to become another statistic. She has family who loves her, children who love her, and that’s why we’re here today. We don’t want to be swept under the rug.”

Aiken Sheriff's Office Captain Eric Abdullah stated, "We all have one ultimate goal, and that is to find Jamilla.”

Harmon remains detained at the Aiken County Jail without bond, with a court date scheduled for February 23.

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