Investigation Discovery’s gripping episode titled ‘Murder In The Big Apple: Hospital Horror’ sheds light on the chilling events surrounding the r*pe and Dr. Kathy Hinnant murder.

Kathy Hinna, was a promising 33-year-old pathologist in New York City back in January 1989. 

The synopsis of the episode said, “Talented medical researcher Dr Kathy Hinnant moves from South Carolina to New York City for a dream job opportunity; although New York is rife with crime, Kathy’s not scared until one tragic day at work when she faces her worst nightmare.”

This case captured the attention of approximately 50 investigators who dedicated themselves around the clock to solving the homicide within a matter of days. 

The episode provides a moving account of Kathy’s life and the efforts that led to the case’s resolution through interviews with the lead investigators and the family of Kathy. 

Let’s examine what we know more thoroughly.

All you need to kow about Kathy Hinnant murder

Dr. Kathy Hinnant, came into the world on February 9, 1955, in Lake City, Florence Area.

She wanted to work in pathology, where she hoped to make significant contributions to diagnosing and potentially curing diseases like cancer. 

Kathy made the brave decision to relocate and pursue her dreams in the city known for its high crime rate in 1982 after receiving a prestigious job offer from a prominent New York hospital.

Although her family expressed concerns about her safety, Kathy fearlessly embraced the challenges of New York City. 

She initially worked at the esteemed Lenox Hill Hospital before later accepting a position at Bellevue Hospital in the late 1980s.

Kathy’s personal life experienced a positive turn when she met Eric Johnson, a jazz musician, at a lavish New Year party on January 1, 1986. 

Despite their contrasting backgrounds, a relationship was built between the pathologist and the musician. 

The discovery of Kathy’s body

Kathy, and Eric were invited to a party on 7th January.

However, when Kathy failed to appear at the party, her husband, Eric, initially assumed that her work had caused her to lose track of time. 

Concerned, he returned home and went to bed.

The following morning, upon realizing that Kathy had still not returned, Eric decided to visit her office to check on her well-being.

On January 8, 1989, her husband and hospital staff discovered her lifeless body. 

Reports revealed that she had been exposed to a fierce assault, getting through a savage beating, assault, and strangulation with an electrical line. 

To make matters considerably really crushing, the post-mortem affirmed that Kathy was five months pregnant at the time of her murder. 

Although suspicions initially fell on Eric, he was eventually ruled out as a suspect after providing a solid alibi.

Disturbingly, the investigators also uncovered evidence that Kathy had been r*ped after her death.

The investigators got a breakthrough

The investigators finally got a breakthrough.

They learned that some of Kathy’s personal belongings, including her jewelry and mink coat, were missing. 

An informant tipped them off about an individual attempting to sell the coat at a homeless shelter. 

This information led them to Steven Smith, a homeless man with a history of psychiatric problems and drug addiction. 

Steven had been squatting in the hospital and disguising himself as a doctor. 

During the investigation, Steven confessed his involvement in Kathy’s murder and r*pe, although he attempted to blame another imaginary person. 

Ultimately, it became evident that he acted alone in committing this heinous crime.

What were Steven Smith charges? Where is he now?

On January 10, 1989, Steven Smith was arrested and charged with second-degree murder, first-degree robbery, and first-degree r*pe. 

The court rejected his plea of insanity, resulting in his conviction and sentencing to 50 years to life in November 1989.

While Kathy’s family sought justice through a wrongful death lawsuit against Bellevue Hospital, their efforts proved unsuccessful when they lost the civil suit in 1996. 

Steven Smith, now 58 years old, is living behind bars at the Great Meadow Correctional Facility in Comstock, New York. 

Official records indicate that he will not be eligible for parole until April 2039.