Holts Summit murder trial continues after suspected shooter’s testimony

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

After taking the stand Wednesday, the woman accused of a deadly Holts Summit shooting is in court again for the fourth day on Thursday.

Heather Smith is charged with second-degree murder, child endangerment, armed criminal action and three counts of unlawful use of a weapon. Smith is accused of shooting and killing 37-year-old Kara Dills at Hunter Lane Apartments in April 2025.

The 38-year-old suspect took the stand Wednesday, arguing her actions were taken in self-defense.

Smith allegedly shot Dills after their children got into an altercation while riding bikes in the apartment complex. Allegedly, Smith confronted Dills twice before the shooting, with Dills' sister allegedly confronting Smith in between.

Several witnesses alleged on Tuesday that Smith flashed a gun tucked into her waistband at Dills' mother during one of the confrontations.

On the day of the shooting, Dills allegedly pistol-whipped Smith and walked away. When the gun struck Smith, it went off and grazed a bystander's head. Smith then allegedly fired a shot into Dills' stomach, ultimately killing her.

Dills' boyfriend, Aireon Terrill, and her sister and nephew were present during the main confrontation before the shooting. Dills' nephew allegedly tried to disarm Smith but wasn't able to.

Smith alleged Dills shoved her during the argument as well. Smith said she pointed her gun at Dills' boyfriend because she felt threatened. Video surveillance shows Smith threatening witnesses with a pistol.

Some of Dills' family members agreed that Dills shoved Smith, but they also argue that Smith pointed the gun at other people.

Terrill said he was trying to de-escalate the situation.

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