Missing Since: 2006-04-04 Location: Camdenton, Missouri
Spencer was last seen in Camdenton, Missouri on April 4, 2006. He was working in the food service industry at the time. His dog, a Rottweiler/Bullmastiff mix, disappeared with him. Spencer has never been heard from again. His mother didn’t report him missing until April 18, 2007 because he had previously dropped out of sight for months at a time. He has previously resided in California and worked in convenience stores, as an auto detailer and as a laborer. Spencer’s family stated he loved animals and would sometimes go without food so his pets could eat. In June 2015, David W. Smith was arrested and charged with Spencer’s murder. A photo of Smith is posted with this case summary. The police got a break in the investigation when Smith’s wife, his former roommate, and associate of Smith’s named Jake East gave statements to them about the homicide. The witnesses said Spencer and East had gone to Smith’s home to sell him marijuana, but the deal went bad and Smith shot Spencer to death with a .38 special, ripped his teeth out, and dismembered and burned the body. In November 2016, Smith pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and abandonment of a corpse in Spencer’s case. He was sentenced to nineteen years in prison. Authorities don’t believe they will be able to recover Spencer’s remains. Foul play is suspected in his case due to the circumstances involved. Investigating Agency Camden County Sheriff’s Office 573-346-2243 Source Information Missouri State Highway Patrol NamUs The Rolla Daily News Camden County Sheriff’s Office Lake News Online Updated 7 times since October 12, 2004. Last updated November 12, 2017; details of disappearance updated.