DNA in Question: Shantieya Smith

In this episode of Hunting 4 Answers: In May 2018, 26-year-old Shantieya Smith left her home in Chicago to run a quick errand and never returned. Nearly two weeks later, her body was discovered inside a garage just blocks from home.

Her death was ruled a homicide, and police identified a person of interest. But as her mother pushed for answers, conflicting information about DNA evidence raised new questions about the investigation.

As of November 2023, no one had been charged with Shantieya's murder, and her family was still searching for answers. If you have any information that could help investigators, please contact the Chicago Police Department at 312-746-6000.

You can also submit an anonymous tip at This is the story of Shantieya Smith. See for privacy information.