Cobb County man receives two life sentences for beating girlfriend, killing her mother and grandmother

In a harrowing case of domestic violence, Robert Colt Smith, 32, has been sentenced to two life sentences for murdering his girlfriend's mother and grandmother in a house fire. The violence began on Valentine's Day 2022, when Smith first assaulted Carolyn Parmalee, resulting in serious injuries that required hospitalization. Despite a no-contact order, Smith manipulated Parmalee into staying with him, leading to further assaults in early 2023. On March 12, 2023, Smith set fire to a vehicle at Parmalee's home using spray paint cans, which ignited the house and killed her mother, Andrea Nall, her grandmother, Michelle Lacroix, and eight pets. Smith was convicted of multiple serious charges, including felony murder and aggravated assault, highlighting the grave consequences of domestic abuse.

Senior Assistant District Attorney Stephanie Green remarked on the tragic lengths parents go to protect their children from abusers, noting that justice has finally been served. This case underscores the critical need for awareness and prevention of domestic violence, which affects countless individuals and families. The community is left to grapple with the aftermath of such a devastating incident.