Winter Park counselor Rebecca White killed in Lee Road stabbing; former client Michael Smith found dead

What investigators say happened

A licensed mental health counselor was fatally stabbed Monday night, Jan. 19, 2026, inside an office building on Lee Road in the Winter Park area, according to Orange County Sheriff’s Office investigators. Deputies said a second victim — a man in his 30s — was also stabbed and hospitalized in critical condition, later undergoing surgery and expected to recover.

Investigators identified the counselor as Rebecca White, 44. They named Michael Smith, 39, as the suspect and said he was a former client of White’s.

Timeline and locations

• About 9 p.m., Monday, Jan. 19: Deputies responded to the 900 block of Lee Road after reports of a stabbing. White was found with severe injuries, taken to a hospital, and later pronounced dead. The second victim was also taken to a hospital.

• Tuesday morning, Jan. 20: Deputies located Smith dead near the 9000 block of Windy Ridge Road. Investigators said preliminary information indicates he died by suicide.

What is known about the attack inside the office

Deputies said the stabbing began when Smith entered the counseling office during a therapy session involving White and another client. Investigators said Smith demanded to speak with White. White told him to leave, and when the client indicated he was calling 911, Smith produced a knife and attacked both people before fleeing.

Authorities have not released details about a motive, and no additional suspects have been identified.

Setting and immediate aftermath

The attack occurred inside a larger office building near Adanson Street, west of Interstate 4. Investigators said there was a large gathering in the building at the time. Witnesses reported a chaotic scene as deputies arrived and secured the area.

About the counselor’s practice

White operated a private practice, Down to Earth Therapy Solutions, based at 933 Lee Road in Orlando. The practice offered individual and couples therapy, among other services.

What remains unanswered

Investigators have not disclosed how recently Smith had been a client, whether any prior threats or incidents had been reported, or what security measures were in place at the office. The identity of the surviving victim has not been released.

The investigation remained active Tuesday, with authorities continuing to review evidence and witness accounts.