CNN: “Authorities have charged a man in the shooting of prominent South Carolina lawyer Alex Murdaugh in what they allege was a conspiracy to commit insurance fraud. Curtis Edward Smith, 61, of Colleton County has been charged with assisted suicide; conspiracy to commit insurance fraud; pointing and presenting a firearm; and assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature, according to a South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. According to the affidavit filed to support the charges, Murdaugh allegedly conspired with Smith in the shooting on September 4, providing him with the firearm and instructing Smith to shoot him in the head.”

“The purpose, according to the affidavit, was for Smith to kill Murdaugh so that his son could collect a life insurance payout of approximately $10 million. Murdaugh, who survived the shooting, admitted to the scheme on Monday, the affidavit said. On Tuesday, Smith admitted to being present at the shooting of Murdaugh and to disposing of the firearm, the affidavit said. Murdaugh is described as a co-defendant in the affidavit, although no charges have been announced against the 53-year-old attorney. SLED said additional charges are expected in the case. Smith has also been charged with the distribution of methamphetamine and possession of marijuana, according to SLED. It’s not clear if Smith has retained legal counsel at this time.”