Southwestern Alabama — Authorities Investigating Suspected Murder-Suicide That Left Four Dead in Daphne Home
Authorities in Baldwin County, Alabama are investigating a suspected murder-suicide that left four people dead, including two children, in what officials are calling one of the most tragic cases the community has faced in recent years.
The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that deputies were called to a home in Daphne on the evening of August 14, where they discovered four family members dead from apparent gunshot wounds. Investigators now believe that Kenneth Smith Jr., 44, fatally shot his wife, Larrica Gaines Smith, 41, and their two children — Kristian Smith, 14, and Kensley Smith, 11 — before turning the gun on himself.
Capt. Daniel Steelman of the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the preliminary findings in an email to USA TODAY on August 17, noting that while evidence points to a murder-suicide, the investigation remains ongoing. Autopsies and forensic tests are being conducted to provide additional clarity.
“It’s as tragic as it comes,” Sheriff Anthony Lowery said during a press conference covered by Mobile Fox affiliate WALA, expressing the deep sorrow felt not only by law enforcement but also by the entire community.
Community in Shock
News of the tragedy has rocked the quiet neighborhoods of Daphne and surrounding areas of Baldwin County. Friends, neighbors, and community leaders are grappling with the loss of a family that was well known and loved. The two children, Kristian and Kensley, were both students who had bright futures ahead of them, described by friends and teachers as kind, talented, and full of potential.
The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office released a statement acknowledging the devastating nature of the incident and asking for privacy for the grieving families. The statement also emphasized the department’s commitment to conducting a thorough investigation, despite evidence strongly suggesting that Kenneth Smith was responsible for the deaths of his wife and children before taking his own life.
An Ongoing Investigation
While the Sheriff’s Office has shared preliminary findings, officials stressed that investigators are still carefully reviewing all aspects of the case. Detectives are gathering evidence, interviewing relatives and acquaintances, and working to determine what may have led to such a horrific act.
Cases of domestic violence and family-related shootings have increasingly drawn attention in Alabama and across the United States, sparking ongoing conversations about mental health, access to firearms, and the support systems available to struggling families. Sheriff Lowery urged anyone facing personal crises to seek help and for communities to remain vigilant in supporting those who may be in distress.
A Family Remembered
As the investigation continues, the community is left to mourn the sudden loss of four lives. Friends and loved ones remember Larrica as a devoted mother and caring member of her community, Kristian as a bright teenager with dreams for the future, and Kensley as a young child whose smile could light up a room.
Vigils are expected to be organized in the coming days as residents come together to honor the memory of the Smith family and offer support to relatives and friends left behind.
The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office has not released further details regarding funeral arrangements but confirmed that counseling resources will be made available for classmates and community members struggling to process the tragedy.
