A Texas man, 42-year-old Steven Alexander Smith, was given a life sentence without parole for the murder of two dentists.
The sentencing took place on January 22, 2024, after Smith pleaded guilty to capital murder charges in the deaths of 59-year-old Dr. Blake G. Sinclair and 75-year-old Dr. Jack E. Burroughs.
The tragic event unfolded at a dental clinic in Tyler, Texas named Affordable Dentures & Implants on March 16, 2022. Smith, a patient of the clinic, voiced his displeasure with his denture treatment which escalated into a tense altercation. He was informed that he would no longer be a patient which further fueled his anger.
Described as a “difficult patient” by the clinic staff, Smith tried to take his dentures and assaulted Dr. Burroughs, knocking him to the ground. He then exited the clinic, only to return armed with a handgun. Despite Dr. Burroughs’ attempt to lock the door, Smith forced his way back in. In the ensuing struggle, Smith shot both Dr. Burroughs and Dr. Sinclair multiple times, causing fatal injuries. The doctors were later pronounced dead at the hospital.
Smith managed to escape from the scene but was later detained by law enforcement at his residence.
As Smith arrived at his home, a deputy was on the scene and quickly set up a perimeter around the house. Smith finally surrendered after his parents came out of the house.
Upon searching the home, law enforcement officers discovered two pistols of the same caliber as the one used in the fatal shooting.
A nurse who had worked with Smith during his dental procedure recalled his discontent and the unease he caused amongst the staff.
The life sentence for Smith brings some closure to the bereaved families of the victims.
The Smith County District Attorney’s Office had earlier determined not to seek the death penalty in this case, resulting in Smith’s life sentence.
In a more recent incident, on February 29, 2024, a California dental office became the scene of a deadly shooting. Dr. Benjamin Ariel Harouni, a 28-year-old dentist at Smile Plus Dentistry & Orthodontics in El Cajon, California, was fatally shot by a former patient, identified as 29-year-old Mohammed Abdulkareem. The attack, which unfolded just after 4 p.m., also left two others injured—a man in his 40s and a woman in her 20s, both in stable condition. The tragedy has shaken the local community and raised questions about the motive behind such a calculated act of violence.
Dr. Harouni, recently celebrated his birthday, was described as a passionate dentist who took pride in offering quality dental care. The dental practice, owned by his father, Dr. Jack Harouni, mourns the loss of a vibrant life cut tragically short. Dr. Harouni’s dedication to his profession and the care of his patients highlighted his commitment to his community.
The suspect, Abdulkareem, donned in all-black attire, fled the scene in a white U-Haul pickup truck immediately after the shooting, leading to a tense manhunt. He was apprehended hours later in San Diego, roughly 20 miles from the scene. At the time of his capture, Abdulkareem was found with a loaded handgun and several magazines, which police disclosed were legally purchased just two weeks prior to the shooting. This detail points to a premeditated attack, adding a layer of preplanning that has left investigators and the community searching for answers.
Initial reports suggest Abdulkareem was a “disgruntled” former patient of the dental office, a detail that has become a focal point in understanding the motive behind the shooting. Despite this, the investigation remains open, with law enforcement and the community eager for clarity. Notably, the involvement of Dr. Harouni’s Jewish heritage and the potential for a hate crime have been topics of discussion. However, officials and advocacy groups have urged patience as the investigation unfolds, emphasizing the need for a thorough understanding of the motive.
The attack has prompted a wave of support for the victims and their families, with public vigils and statements of condolence highlighting the community’s solidarity. Dr. Harouni’s family, mourning the loss of a beloved son and brother, has been at the center of this outpouring of grief. The incident has also sparked a broader conversation on safety and security in healthcare settings, underscoring the unpredictable nature of violence and the importance of preparedness.
