06/13/2026
Clermont Resident Arrested on First-Degree Murder Charge Following Extensive Investigation
This morning, the Clermont Police Department, with assistance from the Mid-Florida SWAT Team, arrested Clermont resident Kirby Alan Smith (DOB: 10/25/1992) at 1130 Linton Court, Unit A. Smith has been charged with First-Degree Murder in connection with a homicide that occurred at the same location on May 20, 2026.
The arrest was carried out as part of a coordinated operation and was completed without incident. Smith was transported to the Lake County Jail for processing.
On May 20, 2026, Clermont Police officers responded to 1130 Linton Court, Unit A, regarding a reported shooting and death investigation. The initial investigation revealed that Smith had allegedly shot and killed Michael Rodriguez (DOB: 07/10/1978), also a Clermont resident. Rodriguez, a close associate of Smith, had been residing at the residence for several weeks prior to the incident.
Upon arrival, officers located Rodriguez inside the residence suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. Investigators recovered the suspected murder weapon, an AR-style pistol chambered to fire .223/5.56 caliber rounds.
Smith was detained on the evening of the incident and interviewed by detectives. During the interview, he claimed he acted in self-defense following a verbal altercation with Rodriguez earlier that day. At that time, investigators had not identified witnesses or evidence sufficient to contradict Smith’s account, and he was subsequently released pending further investigation.
Detectives with the Clermont Police Department then conducted an extensive and comprehensive investigation, which included numerous interviews, the ex*****on of multiple search warrants, and the issuance of several subpoenas. Working closely with the State Attorney’s Office for the Fifth Judicial Circuit, investigators pursued all available leads and forensic evidence.
As a result of these efforts, detectives obtained an arrest warrant charging Smith with First-Degree Murder (Florida Statute 782.04(1)(a)(1)). Rodriguez’s next of kin have been notified.
The Clermont Police Department extends its appreciation to the Mid-Florida SWAT Team for its assistance in safely executing the arrest warrant. Mid-Florida SWAT is comprised of law enforcement officers from Clermont, Leesburg, Mount Dora, Groveland, and Eustis, along with Fire/EMS personnel from those municipalities and Lake County.
The department also thanks the State Attorney’s Office for the Fifth Judicial Circuit for its partnership and support throughout this investigation.
Through the dedication, professionalism, and collaborative efforts of all involved, a significant step has been taken toward achieving justice for the victim, his family, and the Clermont community.
