St. Louis County, Missouri – Charges were filed after a woman was found dead during a welfare check at a north St. Louis apartment complex.
According to the St. Louis County Police Department, the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office on Monday charged Terrance Smith, 49, of the 8800 block of Dragonywk Drive, with Abandonment of a Corpse. Smith is being held on a $100,000 cash-only bond, with 10% not authorized. A booking photo was released by police.
Authorities emphasized that the charge is merely an accusation and that Smith is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
The probable cause statement states that on January 21, county police conducted a welfare check at the Dragonywk Drive apartment at the request of county social services and property management. Officers located the victim, identified as D.M., lying on a couch underneath blankets and clothing. Police reported the victim showed signs of decomposition, had no pulse, and was cold to the touch. She was pronounced dead at 12:45 p.m.
Investigators determined that neighbors had not seen the victim since mid-December 2025. Police also noted the victim’s last known Facebook post was dated December 15, 2025. Surveillance and witness information allegedly showed Smith at the apartment the night before the welfare check, with his personal belongings still inside.
Police said Smith was not initially located. On February 2, he allegedly returned to the apartment complex, where leasing staff notified law enforcement. Officers responded and arrested him. Investigators reported that Smith stated he lived at the apartment with the victim.
Detectives with the St. Louis County Police Department Crimes Against Persons Unit are continuing the investigation.
The case may be of particular relevance to renters and property managers, as the initial welfare check was prompted by concerns from apartment staff.
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