Local News

Body found in bushes behind Johnston County Library

Police were notified that the body of an adult male was behind an HVAC unit by the library and concealed by thick shrubbery.

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SMITHFIELD, N.C. — Smithfield police are investigating why a dead body was found outside a Smithfield library.

Bobby Ray Bailey, 42 of Benson was found, concealed by thick shrubbery behind an HVAC unit outside the Johnston County Public Library on 305 East Market Street in Smithfield.

The state Medical Examiner's Office says the death does not appear suspicious at this time.

"All of us at the Smithfield Police Department want to ensure our citizens and library patrons that the library and its surrounding area is a safe place," a press release said.  "We do not believe this incident poses any further danger."

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