A small community in Daphne, Alabama is grieving after the tragic deaths of a family of four, which authorities believe was the result of a murder-suicide. The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) confirmed that two adults and two children were found dead early Wednesday morning, August 14, with apparent gunshot wounds.
Authorities Respond to Welfare Call
Sheriff Anthony Lowery explained in a press conference that deputies were sent to the family’s home after a concerned family member, who did not live at the residence, contacted authorities for a welfare check. Deputies arrived at around 3:30 a.m., and after receiving no response, they entered the home. Inside, they found the four family members deceased.
Sheriff Lowery described the scene as heartbreaking, stating, “It looks like there might have been some type of domestic issue that obviously escalated to this. … It’s as tragic as it comes.”
Family Members Identified
The sheriff later identified the alleged shooter as Kenneth O’Neil Smith Jr., 44. The victims have been confirmed as:
Larrica Gaines Smith, 41
Khristian Smith, 15
Kinsley Smith, 11
According to the sheriff, the weapon recovered at the scene was a handgun, believed to have been used in the shooting.
Community Mourning a Family Lost
Neighbors and friends in the Daphne community were quick to react, gathering outside the Smith home in an impromptu vigil. Local outlet WKRG reported that the family’s mailbox is now surrounded by flowers, stuffed animals, a football, and heartfelt cards, left by those mourning the loss of the young children and their parents.
Support for Students and Staff
Both children were students at local schools, and the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office has worked with school officials to ensure grief counselors are available for students, teachers, and staff dealing with the emotional toll of the tragedy.
No Ongoing Threat to Public
Sheriff Lowery emphasized that the community is not in danger, stating that all individuals involved in the incident were found inside the home, and no suspects are being sought. The case remains under investigation as authorities continue to gather more details about what may have led to the horrific event.
How to Seek Help
This tragedy has raised awareness around the importance of mental health and domestic violence support. Those facing crisis situations or emotional distress are encouraged to contact resources such as:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
Local counseling services available through schools, clinics, and churches
The Daphne community is mourning a heartbreaking loss following what appears to be a murder-suicide involving a loving mother, two children, and their father. As investigators continue piecing together what happened, neighbors, friends, and classmates are left with grief and unanswered questions. This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of checking in on loved ones and seeking help when warning signs appear.
