Testimony continues in Adam Smith's double murder trial

CANTON, N.Y. (WWNY) – Adam Smith's double murder trial continues Thursday in St. Lawrence County Court with more witnesses taking the stand.

Smith is accused of killing 72-year-old Ronald “Huck” Durham. Durham was assassinated on February 11, 2023 in the town of Governor. His body was found in East Riverside Cemetery.

Smith is also alleged to have murdered 67-year-old William Freeman. Freeman was found dead on March 2, 2023 at his home at 258 County Route 10 in the town of Rossie.

The first person to testify Thursday was one of the last people to see Ronald “Huck” Durham alive.

Shortly before 4 a.m. on February 11, 2023, Durham Eric Fischer drove to Governor Stewart's Shop to get coffee and cigarettes. Durham had fallen and Fischer would help with his errands. Surveillance videos were shown to the jury.

Fischer said that after they left the gas station, Durham dropped him off at his governor's mansion, which was the last time Fischer saw Durham.

Fischer testified that Durham's daughter called him later that morning and threatened him because he was one of the last people to see Durham alive.

Fischer also testified that he knew Freddie Wing, the man who was originally charged with Durham's murder after making a false confession. Fischer testified that Durham and Wing argued about money.

Fischer says during the investigation he was interviewed and provided DNA, his clothing and other items, including two knives.

The second witness was Heather Dixon, then general manager of the Stewart's Shop location.

Surveillance video from outside the store showed Durham's car turning onto Depot Street around 4:14 a.m. Dixon testified that the road could lead to the cemetery. She said he usually went there to visit his wife's grave after drinking his coffee.

At around 4:36 a.m., security video shows Adam Smith entering Stewart's and using the restroom before leaving the property and returning a few minutes later. Dixon testified that she and Smith did not have a conversation and he did not appear nervous.

Testimony continues Thursday afternoon.

Copyright 2024 WWNY. All rights reserved.