Nationwide — A tragic capturing at a automotive wash in Forest Hill, Texas, on Monday claimed the lives of Ronnie Smith, a 30-year-old native rapper often known as G$ Lil Ronnie, and his 5-year-old daughter, R’Mani. The capturing occurred round 10:45 a.m. at Slappy’s Categorical Automotive Wash on Forest Hill Drive. In accordance with Folks, Smith and his daughter have been of their car when two suspects in a white four-door Kia approached and opened fireplace earlier than rushing away. Each victims have been pronounced lifeless on the scene. The incident has left the neighborhood in shock, with relations mourning the loss and authorities actively investigating.
Relations revealed that R’Mani had simply celebrated her fifth birthday the day earlier than the capturing, making the tragedy much more devastating. Stella Houston, Smith’s aunt, shared that he had been cleansing out his automotive when the suspects opened fireplace. “He was simply cleansing the automotive out, and anyone got here by way of capturing and killed him and the newborn,” she stated. The violent assault has raised considerations within the space, as Smith was described as a loyal father and an artist who had no identified enemies.
Family members gathered close to the crime scene all through the day, grieving and demanding justice. Many who knew Smith spoke extremely of his character, emphasizing that he was a household man who centered on his music profession and averted bother. “He didn’t goal anybody. He was a household man and was simply going round rapping,” Houston added. “Why would anybody goal him? And his child?” The mindless nature of the crime has left the neighborhood trying to find solutions.
Police confirmed that they’ve recognized one suspect in reference to the capturing however haven’t but launched a reputation. A warrant has been issued for Capital Homicide as authorities work to find the person. Investigators additionally famous that the town of Forest Hill didn’t file a single murder in all of final 12 months. Nevertheless, following this incident, the entire variety of homicides within the metropolis has now risen to 5 in 2025.
The rise in gun violence has left many residents feeling uneasy. “You simply must watch out out right here, watch your step. It’s loopy out right here,” stated Randy Owens, a Forest Hill resident. “You’re not protected wherever; you simply have to select your spots, you understand what I’m saying?” Many neighborhood members echoed comparable considerations, expressing frustration over the violence affecting their neighborhoods.
Slappy’s Categorical Automotive Wash, the place the capturing came about, launched a press release expressing its shock and disappointment over the incident. As a precaution, the enterprise introduced it might stay closed for a minimum of two days whereas the investigation continues. In the meantime, Smith’s household and buddies proceed to grieve, hoping that justice will quickly be served for each him and his younger daughter.
