RALEIGH -- A jury has found Travion Smith guilty of first degree murder in the death of Bladen County native Melissa Huggins-Jones.
The jury made their decision on Tuesday afternoon shortly after they started deliberating. Their decision was based on malice, premeditation, and deliberation.
Smith was charged in the death of Huggins-Jones who was found stabbed and beaten in her north Raleigh apartment in May 2013.
Twelve jurors were unanimous in the verdict of guilty.
Smith sat quietly as he listened to the verdict. He showed little emotion. But family and friends were very emotional, crying and hugging one another.
Sentencing starts on Wednesday morning at 9:30. Smith could face the death penalty.