Macomb man charged with first-degree murder after cellmate dies in McDonough County Jail

MACOMB, Ill. — A Macomb man was arrested Tuesday and charged with first-degree murder after a man died in the McDonough County Jail.

Agents with the Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 4 were requested by the McDonough County Sheriff on Nov. 8 to conduct a death investigation. During the investigation, it was learned Darrell J. Hocker, 51, and Timothy L. Smith, 40, were cellmates and involved in an altercation. As a result of the altercation, Hocker died from his injuries. 

After an investigation, including reviewing surveillance camera footage and conducting multiple interviews, Smith was identified as the suspect.    

ISP DCI presented its case to the McDonough County State’s Attorney’s Office. Smith was charged with two counts of first-degree murder on Tuesday, Dec. 19.  Smith, who is lodged at the McDonough County Jail on previous charges, is awaiting his first court appearance regarding these charges.