NATCHEZ — A Natchez man faces a charge of murder in the Friday afternoon stabbing death of a Natchez man.

The Natchez Police Department Criminal Investigation Division on Saturday announced they have arrested and charged Garrett Beamer, 33, with murder in the Friday afternoon stabbing death of Robert C. Smith, 62, said Walter Armstrong Natchez police chief.

“Officers were responding to a fight in progress at 215 Oak Hill Drive,” Armstrong said of the 4:48 p.m. Friday police call, “and before they arrived officers were notified of a possible homicide at the same location. When officers arrived officers and deputies discovered the body of Robert C. Smith on the floor of that residence with what appeared to be stab wounds.”

Adams County Coroner James Lee pronounced Smith dead shortly thereafter.

“Witnesses were able to aid criminal investigation division officers to suspect Garrett Beamer,” Armstrong said. “Officers also have evidence of possible drug usage at the scene.”

Armstrong said the investigation is ongoing and police believe it is an isolated incident in which drugs played a part.

“I would like to commend CID for their hard work and quick arrest in this case,” Armstrong said. “Thanks to them for a job well done.”