March 17, 2024 - Smithfield, NC

Age 44

Emily was shot and killed by her sister’s ex partner, during a child custody exchange for her niece. Her murderer and his wife were due in court the very next day for a custody hearing, which never happened because of this tragic event. Emily and her sister, Hillary Lombardi, had gone together to pick up Hillary's 14-month-old daughter from the child's father, where she had spent the weekend. They knocked at the door together and he didn’t answer. Finally when he did, he shot a single bullet that killed Emily. Her sister and niece were unharmed. Emily was a veteran and leaves behind a young child and husband.

Emily’s Obituary

Hillary and her Ex were in Family Court fighting over custody, as he had applied for full custody suggesting Hillary have visitation.

A Go Fund Me was set up for her surviving family.

News Coverage

• Warrants: Murder suspect recorded video as he shot his child's aunt

• 'An angel on earth:' Arts supporter, mom killed while helping sister with custody issue

• Raleigh theatre director, Army veteran killed in custody exchange Sunday night

Latest Update

Her murderer is currently out on bond, and even though he wasn’t supposed to leave the state of NC, he was granted a visit to Florida for a work trip, much to the dismay of Emily’s family. 

The next court hearing, a status conference, is scheduled for December 13, 2024 in Smithfield, North Carolina. The trial is set for April 14, 2025.

Check out the site standwithemily.com for more information and updates.

WeSpoke reporting by  Olivia Fey