Georgia Pastor Killed Himself While on Trial for Sexually Assaulting a Minor

A Columbus, Georgia, pastor, Christopher Smith, killed himself while on trial for multiple counts of sexual assault with a minor that dates back to 2017. He served at Word of Truth Outreach Ministries Church.

The pastor reportedly shot himself in the head during the trial's recess. Allegedly, his counsel asked the judge for a break so that Smith could obtain his glasses before the court heard a testimony. After Pastor Smith failed to return to the courtroom, his body was discovered outside.

His mental state was questionable after he barricaded himself inside his home and had a standoff with the police, threatening to shoot himself during his 2019 arrest. Pastor Smith faced life in prison upon conviction.

Photo Credit: WTVM