Authorities searching for man indicted in death

Police briefs

Lubbock Avalanche-Journal

Wednesday, November 04, 2009

Authorities searching for man indicted in death

Authorities were still looking on Tuesday for Doneil Smith, 38, who was indicted last week in connection with the death of a Lubbock State School resident.

Lubbock County sheriff's deputies attempted to serve a manslaughter warrant on Smith on Friday, but could not find him, Chief Deputy Danny Downes said on Tuesday.

Smith, a former state school employee, is accused of recklessly causing the death of Michael Nicholson, 45, on June 6.

Reports indicate Smith restrained Nicholson by repeatedly sitting on him. Nicholson died of suffocation during a struggle, according to the medical examiner's report.

Officials ask anyone with information about Smith's whereabouts to call the Sheriff's Office at 775-1480 or Crime Line at 741-1000. Callers may remain anonymous.

A $50,000 bond is attached to the warrant, court records indicate.